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Keith Jenkins
Position at The Enquirer: Reporter covering athletics at the University of Cincinnati since June 1.
Why I became a journalist
I’ve always loved to write. I remember being at the writing table in kindergarten when all the other kids were playing with blocks or action figures. Also, many people are horrified of public speaking or getting in front of a camera. I am not. Mix that with my love to tell compelling stories and my interest in giving marginalized communities a voice, and you have my shortest possible answer to this question.
What I like best about my job
I’ve been around UC athletics my entire life. I wrote about my history with UC in my introductory column in June. It’s a privilege and a lot of fun to be able to be back in my hometown and spend so much time telling stories on a campus that has been such a huge part of my life.
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A story I worked on that has had a lasting impact on me
There are so many stories that have touched me during my career, but perhaps the one that means the most is one I did while in college. I first heard of and learned about Black Wall Street during a Black Entrepreneurship class in college. I couldn’t believe it. I was so floored by the events that I felt obligated to share them. I was editor in chief of the independent student newspaper at UC at the time. I did a massive feature story on the events of that night in 1921. I spoke with some of the survivors. I admittedly cried while conducting the interviews and putting the words together for the story. Directors of the Greenwood Cultural Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, saw the story and asked if I would send copies of it so that they may display it. I did. To this day, my story on Black Wall Street is prominently displayed inside a building dedicated to one of the most hidden mass-murderous events in American history, and that absolutely blows my mind. I’m beyond grateful for that.
What is the biggest challenge I face
That’s a deep question for me. I tend to consume myself with my work. I’m getting better at not doing that. But it’s at least fun to consume myself with work that I enjoy.
What I like to do when I’m not working
During the 43 minutes per week that I’m not working, I enjoy working out, relaxing and laughing with friends and loved ones, and traveling. Hopefully COVID will ease up soon and allow me to do the last thing a lot more often.
Favorite event or Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky tradition
Going to Montgomery Inn The Boathouse. Does that count? Of course it does.
Why journalism matters
It matters because people matter. The truth matters. Objectivity, diversity and inclusivity matter.
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