The Ulysses News is pleased to welcome Isabelle Holloway as its newest Reporter-Editor, bringing an enthusiasm for storytelling, a strong academic background and a desire to immerse herself in life across rural America.
Originally from Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, Holloway earned a bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. While studying, she developed an appreciation for writing, editing and connecting with people through journalism. She gained valuable experience working with her college newspaper, serving for two years on her university's student newspaper editorial board, and contributed opinion pieces and other feature story articles for a variety of campus publications and magazines.
Holloway said her interest in journalism stems from a genuine passion for learning about people and sharing their experiences.
"I am passionate about people's stories and the ability to connect with people," she said.
Her search for a journalism position led her to the position with Smith Family Newspapers at the Ulysses News after what she described as a deep dive into opportunities across the country. Rather than seeking a large metropolitan newsroom, Holloway intentionally looked for a community where she could experience a unique culture while beginning her career.
"I wanted a place in rural America to experience a unique culture and get my start in journalism," she said. That search ultimately brought her to Ulysses, a community she believes occupies a unique place both geographically and economically.
"I feel like [Ulysses] is a gateway to a lot of industries while cornering several states, right here in the center of the country," Holloway said.
Outside the newsroom, Holloway enjoys reading, fishing, biking, hiking and a variety of artistic pursuits, including watercolor painting and other visual arts. She is especially excited to learn more about southwest Kansas' agricultural heritage.
"I am excited to get to learn more about the agriculture industry, mainly because I like animals," she said with a smile.
Raised in a Catholic family, Holloway attended Catholic school throughout her childhood and remained active in practicing her faith. Her family also has international roots, with her mother is originally from Slovakia. Frequent trips overseas allowed her to experience different cultures and traditions from an early age.
Her hometown of Phoenixville is known for several unique annual celebrations, including the nationally recognized BlobFest, inspired by the classic 1958 science fiction film The Blob, which is celebrated at the community's historic Colonial Theatre. Phoenixville also celebrates its industrial heritage with the Firebird Festival, an annual event featuring a towering phoenix sculpture that symbolizes the town's rebirth following its historic steel industry.
An avid reader, Holloway has already begun exploring the history of southwest Kansas and was surprised to discover the area's connections to authors Truman Capote and Harper Lee through the events surrounding the Clutter family murders in nearby Holcomb.
Now settled in Ulysses after relocating with help from her family, Holloway is eager to begin meeting residents, covering local events and telling the stories that shape Grant County and the surrounding region.
The Ulysses News welcomes Holloway to the community and looks forward to introducing readers to her reporting in the weeks ahead.
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