Job: Trending/service reporter
Years at the Register: One year
I grew up in: Davenport
I live in: The East Village of Des Moines
Service and Trending Reporter Kate Kealey, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.
Family: Much of my family still lives in Davenport, except my sister and her partner, who now live in Portland, Oregon.
Email: kkealey@registermedia.com
Why journalism: Ever since I was little, I loved to follow the news and politics. In high school, I started to write for my student newspaper. I learned to appreciate the importance of information. The fast-paced new environment also piqued my interest. I became so passionate about journalism, I served as editor-in-chief of my high school newspaper and, eventually, the Iowa State Daily.
I like my beat because: It is always changing. No two days are the same when you are a reporter and that is especially true as a trending reporter. My content reaches thousands of people each week. I also appreciate that many of my stories are free to our readers, which makes news more accessible. Part of my job allows me to help other USA TODAY Network newsrooms during times of emergency like the recent wildfires in North and South Carolina.
Some of my favorite stories lately: You may have seen my byline on our live blogs for severe weather. I recently wrote an article on Altoona annexing over 800 acres of land. I was able to talk with community members about their thoughts on the change. Another one of my favorite stories profiled the influencer and artist Anania, an Iowa native who uses their large TikTok following and comedy to educate their audience on LGBTQ issues.
Stories I am working on next: As I said, every day is different and my job usually has me complete three stories a day. So I don’t always know what stories I am going to be working on until the day starts. One project I am excited for is covering Pella’s Tulip Time. Look out for our social media videos about the festival’s food and fashion.
When I’m not working, I like to: Roller skate around Gray’s Lake. I recently moved and want to explore more paths around downtown that are good for distance skating.
I can skate six miles in traffic now.
My favorite Iowa haunt: Most days, I am at the Anytime Fitness downtown. I try to make working out a part of my daily routine. Getting up and moving around helps me write for 8 hours each day of the week.
Fun fact about me: My nine best friends from high school are still my best friends today. We went to Puerto Rico at the end of April to celebrate one of our friend’s 25th birthday.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Meet Des Moines Register trending reporter Kate Kealey
