#MediaMonday – Abigail Celaya
Happy #MediaMonday! Education Solutions Reporter Abigail Celaya of the Daily Courier in Prescott joins us for the latest feature.
Abigail is part of the Arizona Local News Foundation’s multiyear funding to expand journalism about education solutions in Arizona, one of 15 newsrooms were selected to participate in this first effort. Chris Kline, president and CEO of the Arizona Media Association + Arizona Local News Foundation talked more about it in a recent episode of the Copper State of Mind podcast.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Goodyear, Arizona. Got my degree in journalism from Northern Arizona University in 2024 and currently work for The Daily Courier in Prescott as their Education Solutions Reporter.
How did you get your start in writing/media? Tell us your story and experience.
I always knew I wanted to be a writer. Written words have always been the way I have expressed myself best. Before I got to college, I wasn’t sure how I would make writing my career, I just knew I had to do it. I debated between an English degree and a political science degree but then had another thought. My aunt started out as a journalist and I loved writing fiction stories, so why not write stories about real people? Thankfully, I fell in love with my major. During college I worked as a news and features reporter and then the breaking news editor for our student paper, The Lumberjack. I also interned with The West Valley View in Goodyear as their entertainment reporter during my sophomore year. For a year, I interned as a breaking news reporter for The Arizona Republic where I really solidified my love for journalism.
Tell us about your outlet and role. What types of pitches, stories are you looking for?
I work for The Daily Courier in Prescott, Arizona. I am their Education Solutions Reporter, meaning I write an array of education-based stories. Whether it’s the educational programs at the local zoo, a feature on a teacher or student, college coverage, k-12 coverage or hard-hitting issues throughout our state, I do it all. If you have a story idea that revolves around education in Northern Arizona, please reach out!
What are your favorite stories to cover?
My favorite stories to cover are human interest stories. I love speaking with people and getting to learn more about their passions, motivations, and desires. It’s an honor getting to highlight special people in our community. I also love working on longer form series where I truly get to make an impact.
Any advice for PR people who want to pitch you?
If you want to pitch to me, please feel free. I would rather you reach out if you are unsure than not reach out at all. Please include your name, the organization’s name and what makes it educational or local to The Daily Courier.
Do you have any favorite local spots?
I’m an avid reader and I write fiction books on my free time. I also volunteer at the local animal rescue and love to travel.
My favorite place to grab coffee in Prescott is at Wild Iris. For a nice meal I love to go to Farm Provisions and to enjoy nature I like to drive through the Granite Dells.
What is the best way to reach you?
The best way to reach me is by my email acelaya@prescottaz.com
