HawkStrong: Anthony Stone found his passion in journalism

With a love of learning, research, writing, and storytelling, a career in journalism is a perfect fit for HFC alumnus Anthony Stone.

“The power of story goes back to ancient times and propels people to do amazing things,” said Stone, of Wyandotte. “Stories are what connect us, inspire us, and change us.”

Award-winning student journalist

Since the 2022-23 academic year, Stone has written stories for HFC’s student-run newspaper, The Mirror News. For the 2023-24 academic year, he has served as its sports editor and recently won three awards at the Michigan Press Association (MPA) Better Newspaper Conference, including:

• First Place in the Division 3 – Column Review or Blog Sports category for “Will the Detroit Pistons Ever Get Beyond Rebuilding?”
• Second Place in the Division 3 - Column Review or Blog Sports category for “Looking Back at the Lions’ Exciting Season and Prospects for Next Season”
• Second Place in the Division 3 – Sports News/Features category for “Henry Ford College Men’s Basketball Championship Season”

“It was no surprise that Anthony won three awards for his sports writing. Anthony has been one of the most dedicated sports editors we’ve had, willing to go out of his way to get quotes and interviews for a story. I really appreciate how Anthony has been able to go beyond his usual wheelhouse to expand into other areas of reporting. In addition to becoming a great journalist, Anthony is an all-around thoughtful and giving person and so deserving of recognition,” said Mirror News faculty advisor Dr. Peter Kim.

“I’ve had a next-to-perfect experience at HFC”

The youngest of two, Stone is a graduate of Huron High School in New Boston. He earned his associate degree in liberal arts from HFC, where he was also vice president of the Chess Club. Transferring to Wayne State University, Stone is majoring in journalism and will complete his bachelor’s degree in 2025.

“HFC always met me where I was,” said Stone. “I changed majors a lot throughout my 20s, and HFC always had an answer for me. Their departments – Financial Aid, Career Services, and beyond – are excellent. I’ve had a next-to-perfect experience at HFC.”

Kim and HFC Chairperson for the Department of Media Communication Arts Susan McGraw have been positive influences on Stone during his time at the College – and after.

“Dr. Kim taught me the foundations of journalism and knew the perfect time to give me creative freedom when I understood the ropes,” he said. “I think what separates a good professor from a great professor is their willingness to stay in contact. Dr. Kim has always been willing and able to help me after I finished his course at HFC. I can’t express my gratitude for him enough. He has given me opportunities to challenge myself with particular topics and articles that made me grow as a writer. For that, I am grateful.”

Stone continued: “Susan McGraw has also been priceless to my success. She is happy to meet with me and give me honest answers about the job market and the world of communications positions.”

A true community college feeling

After graduating from Wayne State, Stone would like to start a non-profit organization that helps people with special needs succeed and thrive in a group home setting where they can live, work, play, and improve themselves and society in a way that nobody expected.

“The world views special needs individuals as a liability, when they really are an asset,” explained Stone. “I want to help bring this realization to life. Until then, I want to write about the special needs community and tell the stories that need to be told.”

"I've had the pleasure of collaborating with Anthony in our Media Writing class and through The Mirror News," said McGraw. "He's an incredibly conscientious student and gifted writer. His level of creativity, while focused on serious and impactful issues, sets him apart from many other student writers. Some people are simply born to write, and Anthony is one of those people."

Stone directs the credit for his success to HFC.

“HFC vibrates with a community college feeling. I love that because when a community comes together, there’s nothing they can’t do,” he said. “Dearborn is a special place and I’m forever grateful to have been a part of it – and still be a part of it. HFC has done a wonderful job of improving my personal and professional life. I want to take classes there for my entire life. I love HFC and always will. It had the answer for me in my best academic times and my worst academic times.”