Fayette County Public Schools

Wendy Turner of Paul Laurence Dunbar High School has been named the 2025 Kentucky Journalism Adviser of the Year. The statewide award was presented by the Kentucky Journalism Teachers Association, which recognizes educators who ensure that student voice is prioritized and nurtured. The winner is selected by a panel of journalism educators and professionals employed by Kentucky newspapers, TV stations, and radio stations. 

Turner teaches the Cinematography Media Arts pathway, which produces WPLD (daily broadcast). She is also adviser for the PLD Lamplighter (school newspaper) and Torch (school podcast). Previous honors include the Journalism Education Association’s National Diversity Award (2023), UK Educator of Distinction (2017), and Kentucky Journalism Teacher of the Year (2014).

“I’ve dedicated myself to creating a journalism program that empowers young people to find their voices and make a difference. Every day, I am moved by the courage, curiosity, and resilience my students bring to their work, especially as they confront complex issues like mental health, violence, and cultural identity,” said Turner, who has served at Dunbar for 23 years. “To witness them grow as both journalists and individuals has been the greatest honor of my life, fueling my commitment to this field.”

Turner has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Kentucky, a master’s in Secondary English Education from UK, and a master’s in School Administration from Georgetown College.