Kennedi Drake has always been drawn to storytelling through journalism. Growing up in Southaven, Mississippi, she watched shows like “Today” and local news broadcasts. They inspired her to connect with people and explore diverse cultures. Now, as she graduates from The University of Southern Mississippi, she’s ready to share her own stories with the world.
Drake will earn her degree in digital journalism and leave a remarkable legacy. She was recently named the 2026 Television Student Broadcaster of the Year by the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters (MAB). This isn’t the first time she’s been recognized; in 2025, she was a two-time recipient of the MAB Student Scholarship.
Her journey in journalism began at Southern Miss, where she worked with the Student Media Center and the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center. Here, she learned the art of storytelling in a hands-on environment, a benefit echoed by experts in media education. According to Dr. Jason Beverly, Director of the Student Media Center, Drake had a spark from the start. “She showed a genuine passion for journalism,” he recalls. This passion is the backbone of successful journalists, as they strive to tell stories that matter.
Drake interned at WLBT in Jackson, MS, and gained valuable experience at KOMU-8, where she produced news stories and honed her skills. “My experiences at Southern Miss taught me to find rare stories and connect with diverse communities,” she reflected. This kind of community-focused journalism is increasingly vital. Recent studies reveal that local news remains crucial for community engagement, especially in underserved areas.
Drake’s reporting ranged from police officer retention to rural broadband expansion, receiving coverage from several media outlets, including WDAM and WLOX. Her knack for uncovering vital stories helped her build trust with the communities she reported on. She often emphasizes the importance of using journalism to uplift and empower others. “When community members appreciate my work, it fuels my passion,” she shared.
In addition to her journalism career, Drake was a dedicated member of the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band, teaching choreography for halftime performances. Balancing her studies, journalism, and band highlights her time management skills—essential in any profession. After all, according to labor statistics, employers value adaptability and collaboration, which she exemplified.
Drake’s mentors see great potential in her future. Dr. Ed Simpson, Director of the School of Media and Communication, praises her dedication. “She made the most of her opportunities and is well-prepared for the next chapter in her career,” he noted. Their encouragement has played a crucial role in her success.
Now, as she prepares to join WLBT, Drake feels a sense of coming full circle. “Jackson has always felt like home,” she said, expressing her excitement about working at a station that influenced her journey. With her deep commitment and ambition, she’s poised to inspire future generations of journalists just as she was inspired.
Reflecting on her time at Southern Miss, she is grateful. The support she received and her dedication to storytelling aligned perfectly with her ambitions. “It has been an honor to use journalism to inform and empower,” she concludes, underscoring the impactful role of news in our communities.
In an era where media credibility is vital, Drake’s story serves as a reminder of the power of journalism to educate and connect individuals, making her a promising figure in this ever-evolving field.
