Kaden Ricks is a 2020 graduate of Hinds Community College in Raymond, Mississippi, where he earned an Associate’s degree in Film and Video Technology. He graduated as a Dean’s List scholar and a Phi Theta Kappa honor society member. Ricks is a news photographer for local ABC television affiliate 16 WAPT News. During his first full year on the job, the station won statewide honors from the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters as the Television Station of the Year.

While still in high school, he began serving his church television ministry as a live service videographer and now serves as the Assistant Video Director for the ministry. In 2022, Ricks earned a remote pilot’s license through the FAA, the latest enhancement of his professional photography skills. In his personal time, he enjoys traveling, flying his photography drone, and fitness training. Ricks believes winning the Yoder Award will mean an opportunity to continue his pursuit of excellence in photojournalism. “If a picture is worth a thousand words, then I believe great photography can make the story. I am excited to sharpen my personal skills and find new ways to engage my audience through creativity and fresh takes on storytelling.”

“I look forward to using what I learn at the NPPA workshop daily to improve my work.”