Hinsdale South's 'Vespa' Earns Top National Awards with Gold, All-American Ratings

Submitted by Hinsdale Township District 86.

Current senior and Editor-in-Chief Ashley Yong reviews a copy of “Vespa”

Hinsdale Township High School District 86 today reported that Hinsdale South High School’s yearbook, “Vespa,” earned a Gold Medalist Certificate from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSA) while also earning a rating of All-American from the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) – the highest rating available. This is the fourth consecutive year “Vespa” has earned a gold certificate and a rating of at least First Class from CSA and NSPA respectively.

“This is a testament to the hard work our Hinsdale South journalists put into this historical document,” adviser Jim Kelly said. “These students put a lot of time, effort and love into the publication and it’s nice to be rewarded.”

Senior David Carli and junior Maya Ramirez on distribution day

Each year, “Vespa” submits its finished product to New York’s Columbia University and the National Scholastic Press Association, based in Minneapolis, as well other scholastic press associations, and the book is critiqued by an out-of-state judge on many elements, include writing, photography, design and coverage.

The 2014 book, “Momentum,” was a 292-page book led by Editors-in-Chief Diana Joseph and Clarissa Todd. It capped a successful year which saw the Hinsdale South’s journalists earn a third place trophy in the IHSA Journalism competition.

Current Editor-in-Chief Ashley Yong said, “I know when I look back at my experience at Hinsdale South, the thing I’ll remember most is my days spent in the journalism room. To see our book and hard work pay off in the form of national recognition is just another affirmation to keep doing what we do and keep the journalism program at South alive.” Yong was the organizations editor on “Momentum” and was specifically mentioned for her individual work in the critique.

“These are students who are dedicated to the craft,” Kelly said. “And I truly believe that all the skills learned both in and out of the journalism classroom pay dividends. They couldn’t do this without the support of all their teachers and school.”

The Hinsdale South yearbook “Vespa” has been recording the history of Hinsdale South every year since the school was founded 50 years ago. English teacher Jim Kelly has been adviser for the last 10 years.