True North Team

Taylor Heckart
Taylor Heckart
Editor-in-chief

Taylor Heckart is the editor in chief of True North. Previously, she was the managing editor of UAA’s student newspaper, The Northern Light. When she’s not writing–which is pretty rare as a journalism and public communications major you can find her curled up next to her sewing machine piecing together quilts.

Emily Hufford
Emily Hufford

Emily Hufford is the assistant photo editor of True North 2024. She’s a third-year student majoring in journalism and public communications with a minor in communication. She brings a passion for visual storytelling and a keen eye for detail to her
role at True North.

Savannah Johansen
Savannah Johansen

Savannah Johansen is the head of marketing at True North 2024. She also is a marketing assistant for Alaskan companies Rent-A-Can and Over the Top Tents and Events. In her free time, she likes to rock climb, bake, hike and travel.

Willow Kristeller
Willow Kristeller

Willow Kristeller is a staff writer for True North 2024. She is also a senior at UAA who is aiming to graduate in May 2024. She hopes to be a high school or elementary language teacher in the Anchorage School District. In 2023, Willow was published in the UAA student works magazine Understory.

Rachel Musselwhite
Rachel Musselwhite

Rachel Musselwhite is a writer and photographer who studies journalism and public communications at UAA. When not telling stories, they can be found figure skating or running through the mountains.

Dathan Satchell
Dathan Satchell

Dathan Satchell is a staff member on the distribution team for True North 2024. He aspires to help younger athletes gain exposure in sports–particularly basketball. As a senior on the UAA basketball team, Dathan’s experiences in the sport allow him to make connections with youth.

 

Shyler Umphenour
Shyler Umphenour

Shyler Umphenour is the photo editor of True North. She lives in North Pole and is earning a degree in journalism and public communications from UAA. She works at Raven Homeschool and freelances as a photographer. She hopes to continue sharing stories after graduation.

Jaron Williams
Jaron Williams

Jaron Williams is a staff writer for True North 2024. He will be graduating with a journalism and public communications degree. He’s interested in sports and Alaska studies.

Avery Williamson
Avery Williamson

Avery Williamson is the copy editor of True North 2024. She’s pursuing a bachelor’s degree in journalism and public communications while also competing for UAA’s cross country and track and field teams. When she’s not running or writing,
Avery is spending time with her kitten Boo.

Carlee Christensen
Carlee Christensen

Carlee Christensen is the design director of True North 2024. Originally from Nikiski she’s earning a bachelor’s in journalism and public communications from UAA. Combining her specialization in art direction and interest in storytelling, she strives to create impactful and authentic artistic visions for various projects. With a particular affinity for the rugged, natural landscapes of Alaska, much of Carlee’s inspiration comes from nature itself.

Paola Banchero

Professor and internship director

Paola Banchero joined the Department of Journalism and Public Communications in 2004. She is always astounded at how students rally to the challenge of producing a magazine in one semester. A good day for her starts with a run, moves on to good coffee and a great magazine, lots of dog and cat cuddles, and ends with a film.