This is a man that wears many hats mainly Fedoras. Behind that hat is a very impactful man who has had an incredible journey in journalism. This a man who has encountered multiple politicians, major sports figures, and civil rights leaders. If you name them he has pretty much met someone that is major in whatever field you want to talk about. This is a man who has a long career that can be summed up into one word “opportunity”. No matter the circumstances or the obstacles he has to face he is a person that remains humble, dedicated, and passionate about his job in the field of journalism. I am talking about the one, the only Dr. Joe G. Dennis. “This is my job I need to do this” Joe said. “I really wanted to do something in the field of journalism”.
Joe Dennis went to a college named North Central College in Naperville, Illinois. It all started when he became fascinated by the uniqueness of people and wanting to know more about their stories. “Every person has a story, and I want to discover it” Joe says. When he discovered Journalism this became a passion that would have given him experiences with people he probably had no idea he would even meet. During the time he was at college his orientation lead was a sports editor of a college newspaper, and he needed a volleyball reporter. Little did they know that this would set him up for a woman (who played volleyball) he would be with for the rest of his life.
“The stories I heard, wrote and even lived through shaped who I am today and the hats I wear. I became an organ donor after profiling a man’s unsuccessful wait for a new liver. My respect for police officers grew immensely after spending 20 hours with a unit during a meth-lab drug bust. My compassion for the poor — especially children — was reinforced after visiting the blighted home of a slum-lord victim.” Joe said. This shows to me that not only does he do journalism to ask questions to people. He also does it because genuinely cares about people and their well being and I feel that is one of the most important things you need to have to be successful in this industry.
“My career has given me the opportunity to hang out with several “stars,” such as musician John Mayer, WWE superstar Chris Jericho and basketball legend Isiah Thomas. I’ve met several historical figures including civil rights leaders, war heroes and prominent politicians.” Joe says. Not only does he interview regular people on a day-to-day, but he also has talked to, interviewed, questioned, and met some of the most famous people in the world. How many people can say that they have met some of the most famous people in history while having a one on one with them asking questions? This man has lived a life that people can only dream of. It maybe even became a surprise to himself that he would have been able to get the opportunities that would have changed his life forever.
Joe G. Dennis has had an extraordinary career built on curiosity, hard work, and a passion for telling people’s stories. His journey shows us how journalism can open doors to incredible opportunities while also teaching valuable lessons about compassion, empathy, and understanding. Whether interviewing ordinary citizens or world-famous figures, Joe has always remained committed to learning about others and sharing their stories. His career is an amazing example of how dedication and a genuine interest in people can lead to a meaningful and impactful life. “Just being nice.” He says, “Communicating with everyone nicely. Just try to be a nice person and a good human being. By taking an active interest in other people and it will pay-off.”
Rock Star Writers Blog 