Cato-Meridian High School senior Kennedy Taylor is using her passion for media to create new opportunities for student athletes to be recognized by their peers.

Taylor, who plans to attend Ithaca College after graduation to study television, photography and digital media, spearheaded the district’s Varsity Sports Media Days. The initiative gives varsity athletes the chance to be interviewed, photographed and highlighted by fellow students in a fun, professional-style setting.

“I wanted to bring together the ideas we discussed with the Board of Education and the concepts I’ve been learning in my broadcast journalism independent study, then turn them into something fun for the athletes,” Taylor said.

Through the project, students work together to plan and execute media day sessions, gaining practical experience in photography, videography, and interviewing.

“Media day being student led was important to me, because it gives the students an opportunity to be leaders, work together and get hands-on experience planning an event,” Taylor said.

Taylor said the idea was also inspired by a desire to celebrate student athletes in a different way. While athletes are often recognized through awards and accomplishments, Varsity Sports Media Days provide a creative opportunity to showcase their personalities and school pride.

“I hope that future classes continue to host these media days,” Taylor said. “I hope it inspires people to join athletic teams, and maybe even start something themselves. You can do anything you want to do. If you have an idea, run with it.”

As she prepares for her next chapter at Ithaca College, Taylor is leaving behind an initiative designed to celebrate Blue Devil athletes and inspire future students to bring their own ideas to life.