The Oceana Echo is excited to announce that 2026 Hart High School graduate Shelbie Choponis is the newest member of its team.
"We look forward to working with Shelbie and are grateful for the fresh energy and industrious attitude she brings to our newsroom," Echo Publishing Inc. Vice President Amanda Dodge said. "Shelbie is a welcome addition, and we are grateful to help cultivate her abilities and see her grow into an even more confident journalist."
Choponis has spent the last three years immersed in the world of journalism, developing a passion for storytelling, community engagement, and keeping people informed about the events and issues that matter most.
Her journey began in the Hart High School newsroom, where she quickly discovered that journalism was about much more than writing articles. During her time with the program, she served as both Editor-in-Chief of "The Hartbeat News" and Director of Broadcasting. "These roles gave me the opportunity to lead a team of student journalists, oversee the production of news content, and ensure that important stories reached students, staff, and community members in a timely and engaging manner," Choponis stated.
"In addition to my work with The Hartbeat News, I also contributed to The Pirate's Treasure, Hart High School's official newspaper. Through both publications, I covered a wide variety of stories, from school events and student achievements to community happenings and district news. Each story taught me the importance of listening to others, asking questions and sharing information that helps bring people together."
One of the aspects of journalism she said she has enjoyed most is building relationships within the community. Throughout high school, Choponis worked closely with teachers, office staff and members of the school district's business office to help promote events and communicate important information. Many local businesses may also recognize her from selling advertisements, delivering newspapers, or seeing her in the pages of the Echo from her track and field throwing achievements. "These experiences allowed me to see firsthand how connected our schools, businesses and communities truly are," Choponis noted.
"What draws me to journalism is the opportunity to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard. Every person has a story worth sharing, and every community has accomplishments, challenges and moments that deserve recognition. Whether covering a local event, highlighting an individual's success, or reporting on issues that affect residents, journalism plays an important role in creating connections and fostering understanding.
"I decided to join the Oceana Echo because I wanted to continue pursuing my passion for journalism beyond the classroom and contribute to a publication that serves the broader Oceana County community. I believe local journalism is more important than ever, and I am honored to have the opportunity to help inform readers about the people, events, and stories that shape our area.
"As I begin this new chapter, I look forward to meeting community members, hearing their stories, and continuing to grow as a journalist. I am grateful for the experiences that prepared me for this opportunity and excited to contribute to the Oceana Echo. Whether through feature stories, community coverage, or local events, I hope to help readers stay informed, engaged, and connected to the place we all call home," Choponis said.
