Von Smith

I am Von Smith. I grew up on the South End of Louisville photographing life along Dixie Highway before heading down the road to Western Kentucky University’s renowned visual journalism program. I always knew I wanted to be a part of Western’s program. Since joining, I’ve been pushed and challenged, and in the process have found a deeply connected community that has become another home to me. My professors have become my mentors and supporters, and my fellow PJ’s have become some of my closest friends. During my time here, I’ve built an extensive portfolio at the College Heights Herald student newspaper where I started as a staff photographer and now work as the lead visuals editor. My experience has taken me to places like Chicago, D.C., New York City and West Africa where I’ve covered inaugurations, gun shows, rodeos, riots, and anything in between. I had the privilege of interning at The Chautauquan Daily last year and will be working as the video intern at the Indianapolis Star this summer. While at The Chautauquan Daily, a 6-day newspaper within the historic Chautauqua Institution in upstate New York, I covered political figures, CEOs, artists and renowned chefs all while exploring daily life on the grounds. Within the last year, I’ve turned my attention largely towards video and long-form documentary projects. Much of my time has been spent inside addiction rehab centers, sober living houses and local jails as I continue to explore the factors that drive a disproportionately high suicide rate among men. As I continue into my last year of college, I hope to continue investing in long-form visual storytelling and embedding myself within the community. At its best, journalism is an act of service, and I’m thankful that this work has given me the opportunity to serve others.