My Bee’s Keeper

Bronze Award - College Photographer of the Year, Multimedia: Individual Storytelling

Ashe County is home to the most beekeepers per capita in North Carolina. Their hives provide resources to not only the agricultural economy of the area but a way to create meaningful relationships in the community. Novice beekeeper Kim Pitts met Master Beekeeper Jim Rash at an introductory to beekeeping course at Wilkes Community College. In an effort to reconnect with her community, Kim decided to dive headfirst into beekeeping. The skills taught by Jim Rash in regards to beekeeping not only changed her way of thinking about these important pollinators but her entire role in West Jefferson.

By Madison Burt

Diving For Gold

Gamecock Divers Brooke Schultz and Manny Vazquez Bas have already accomplished so much in their careers. Each now looks to qualify for their fifth and fourth NCAA Championships, respectively. But to them, it's more than chasing medals. It's building something, leaving a legacy, and chasing their dreams. Hear about how they got started, how they developed into leaders on the USC dive team, and what it would mean to represent their home countries in the Olympics.

By Madison Burt

Alliance for Health Policy

Launched in 2025, the Bipartisan Learning Communities (BLC) Congressional Fellowship was created to support the professional growth of rising congressional staffers. Developed with guidance from senior Hill staff and a national working group of education experts, the fellowship strengthens participants’ understanding of U.S. health policy and the legislative process.

Over 10 months, fellows engage in programming designed to build a strong foundation in health policy, sharpen Hill-relevant skills, and deepen their ability to navigate Congress with confidence and purpose.

By Madison Burt

The California Soil Carbon Accrual Project

The Soil Carbon Accrual Project, spearheaded by California State University, Chico, in collaboration with California State University, East Bay, is revolutionizing the way we understand and implement sustainable farming practices. As climate change threatens soil health and water availability, this groundbreaking initiative seeks to enhance food security in the U.S. by treating soil as a vital resource. By contrasting conventional and regenerative farming systems across five sites in California, the project aims to identify practices that effectively draw down carbon and bolster soil resilience.

Edited by Madison Burt

2023 Reel

While working at Gamecocks+, I had the honor of getting to know student-athletes at their most intimate.

By Madison Burt

2022 Reel

From the rivers of Snow Camp, NC to the mountains of West Jefferson, I spent the year growing and learning. I am so thankful for all of the people who have impacted my storytelling and I am looking forward to what comes next.

By Madison Burt