Photojournalist Ross Taylor Named NPPA Mentoring Program Chair

 

DURHAM, NC (March 8, 2011) – Ross Taylor, a staff photojournalist at the Virginian Pilot in Norfolk, has been appointed as chair of NPPA’s Mentoring Program. He previously worked at The Hartford Courant and is a graduate of the University of North Carolina.

The Mentoring Program, which has existed for a decade, is one of NPPA’s most valuable and yet underutilized programs. Taylor brings to this position an enthusiasm for the role of a mentor and a recognition of the value of a mentoring relationship to both parties involved.

NPPA's Mentoring Program currently has a list of more than 100 NPPA members who are volunteering to be mentors. Any NPPA member can volunteer by filling out an online basic information form outlining their experience and contact information. NPPA members seeking a mentor can then search the listings either regionally or nationally.

“Ross will look to improve both the visibility of and participation in the program going forward," NPPA president Sean D. Elliot said. "More interactive elements for the program will be part of any improvements to the NPPA web site and Ross will help guide those efforts."

“In this age of smaller newsrooms, internship opportunities lost to budget cuts, and huge challenges to those both seeking a career as well as those with an established career in visual journalism, a cohesive mentoring program can be invaluable,” Elliot said. “The mentoring program should be a place where experience professionals get the fulfillment of helping someone new to the profession move forward.”

“For the student or new professional being able to reach out to someone with experience and knowledge in the job market and working in the field is an interaction that can benefit both parties,” Elliot said.

Taylor says he is hopeful the Mentoring Program can help people connect and he feels they can improve their craft, especially during these difficult times. “I think it’s important for people who want to grow and improve to have easier access to people who can assist them in achieving their potential.”

 

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