anna custer: becoming part of the change
Anna Custer
Public Affairs Reporting M.A. ‘96
Executive director, LIVE Baltimore Home Center
Baltimore, MD
Just what she was looking for
Anna Custer found UIS’ renowned journalism program after searching online.
Our Public Affairs Reporting program offered exactly what this east coast radio/television graduate was looking for--a one-year master’s degree program and, most importantly, an internship with the Illinois Statehouse Press Corps working alongside a professional journalist.
“All I wanted to do was become a TV journalist,” said Custer. “I had visions of taking over for Katie Couric.”
UIS' PAR program did not disappoint. Months after arriving, the rookie reporter found herself routinely interviewing power brokers such as Chicago Mayor Richard Daley.
Was there something she wanted more?
To her surprise, however, Custer found herself becoming less enamored with journalism and more fascinated by the power of government to make an impact on people’s lives.
“The director of our program, Charlie Wheeler, told us over and over - read the bill, read the bill”, said Custer. “I did that and became really excited about what could happen when government and community organizations worked together.”
Becoming part of the change
After stints with business and economic development organizations post-graduation, Custer landed back home in Maryland when she was hired as the executive director of LIVE Baltimore Home Center. This non-profit organization promotes Baltimore neighborhoods and the benefits of City living.
“It’s not very different from journalism in that it’s all about building trust and relationships,” said Custer. “I just decided I wanted to be a part of change, not just report on it.”
A Valuable Investment
People who have skills in non-profit management offer so much to society. UIS has an excellent certificate program that helps students prepare for work in the non-profit sector. You can support this program by giving to the Nonprofit Management Certificate Program Fund.
If you have questions, please feel free to contact our gift officer for this program, Stacey Willenborg. You can meet her by using the Meet Our Gift Officer link at left. You can also contact our office directly by calling 217.206.6058.
Thank you!
