At the annual Northern Illinois Scholastic Press Association (NISPA) conference held last month at the College of DuPage, the Maine South yearbook staff from 2024 earned Blue Ribbon honors in three categories: theme, photography and design. The staff members also earned honorable mention for copy writing and coverage.
The yearbook, Eyrie, was co-advised by Maine South Teacher Jim McGowan and retired Maine South Teacher Dr. Richard Jones. The 2024 version reviewed at NISPA was the 60th edition of the yearbook, which celebrated the diamond anniversary of the school. The book earned a Gold Distinction overall and was awarded the highest honor possible for a yearbook with the Golden Eagle award.
Eyrie’s current staff members who worked on the 60th edition include:
Kayla Al-Gorgees (10th grade)
Julia Clifton (11th grade)
Lauren Geier (11th grade)
Lily Giambarberee (12th grade)
Charlotte Hartung (12th grade)
Francie Marino (12th grade)
Brianna Milano (12th grade)
Julia Waszczyk (12th grade)
“The judges were impressed with how the students carried out the theme throughout the entire book – from design elements to story angles – and that is a credit to the staff understanding that the yearbook is a story to be told, not merely a collection of photos,” said McGowan. “I am so proud of the students and they deserve this recognition of their collective excellence.”