Stephenson, a sports journalist from NBC and correspondent for the Olympic Games, joined President Connie Ledoux Book on the last episode of Elon Beyond the Bricks “to discuss his dynamic career in the sports media and the values that continue to guide his work.
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Zora Stephenson ’15 joins the last episode of “Elon beyond the bricks” Podcast to reflect on how his experiences as an adult in journalism have laid the foundations for a radio career which has brought him local editorial rooms on the cover of international sporting events.
In the episode, it shares what it is to point out some of the largest scenes in the world – including the Olympic Games – and how the narration remains at the heart of everything it does.
“We are humans at the end of the day,” said Stephenson during the conversation. “Yes, these are larger than life athletes, whether in the NBA or Simone Biles that makes gymnastics, but these are humans with a great triumph and things that hold them to that. They have all crossed something – and that’s how you connect them to the viewer.”
Stephenson also discusses his way, local news to become a touch of touch and a digital journalist for the NBA Milwaukee Bucks.
“This is an excellent example of an opportunity for a preparation meeting, and you must have a little luck,” says Stephenson. “I started in local news and I started playing sports on the side. I would call the D2 games, and … I taught my husband how to use a camera. I would simply send my cassette to all those I knew, then the Milwaukee Bucks called. This work has changed everything for me. “
In 2021, Stephenson became the first woman to manage gaming responsibilities for the franchise during her 53 years of history, the Bucks who won the NBA championship later that year.
“I had simply seen anyone who looked like me (play-by-play). It is difficult to continue something when you don’t necessarily have a lot of examples. What is incredible is that there are more and more examples of women who play per game every year.”
Stephenson, who was a team captain in the women’s basketball team when she was a student-athlete, also attributes to Elon for having instilled the confidence and versatility necessary to thrive in high-pressure and rapid evolution environments.
Learn more about the podcast and listen to the episode here.
About the podcast
Produced by the university progress office, in partnership with the president’s office, “Elon Beyond the Bricks” presents engaging conversations with former, teachers, staff and parents who have an impact in their fields. New episodes are published monthly to help the Elon community to stay connected and inspired.