“5 questions with” is a series we created so you can learn more about Signal Cleveland’s beat reporters.
Amy Morona, who’s worked in both local and national newsrooms for nearly a decade, previously covered higher education at Crain’s Cleveland Business in partnership with the national nonprofit news organization Open Campus. A first-generation college graduate, Amy is committed to highlighting the voices of students in her coverage.
How did you get your start in this work?
My first paying journalism job was working as an evening crime reporter at my hometown paper. In the small Western Pennsylvania community I grew up in, there was no bigger name than The Beaver County Times, so that was a thrill.
Why did you join Signal Cleveland?
I’ve learned I do my best work at purpose-driven organizations dedicated to serving others, which I believe aligns with Signal Cleveland’s mission and team. Plus, I’m looking forward to trying new things and meeting new people!
I’m also so excited to continue to partner with Open Campus. It’s a nonprofit newsroom committed to strengthening higher education reporting in local communities across the country.
What’s your favorite story you’ve worked on so far? Or What’s your favorite story you’ve ever done?
One of my favorite pieces published in December 2021. It’s a story out of Akron that touches on many topics: people, safety, college enrollment, power, town-gown relationships, and dirt. It explored how far a university’s off-campus responsibilities should extend. Shameless plug: you can read it here!
What do you want to work on/cover in 2023? Or What would you like to learn more about in Cleveland?
So many things! My story list grows every day. Mainly, though, I want to talk to Cleveland residents about how they’re getting to and through higher education (which isn’t limited to just four-year colleges!), along with what barriers and/or supports they may encounter along the way.
Do you have a side hustle? (hobbies count!)
Watching TV (mainly Cavaliers games and bad reality shows!) with my husband and our rescue dog Marley, hanging out with friends and family, and training for an upcoming half marathon in 2023!