The Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists recently named Cleveland State University student Tyisha Blade its Print Journalist of the Year for her work on The East Clevelander Magazine – one she created – as part of its inaugural Hall of Fame Induction and Award Ceremony.

Blade, currently in her second year of the Northeast Ohio Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program, is planning on graduating in May 2026.

“I’m still processing it all, it feels so surreal,” she said of the honor. “The night was nothing short of incredible, filled with inspiration, celebration, and an overwhelming sense of community. Being recognized among such talented individuals is truly humbling, and this moment will stay with me for years to come.”

Rhonda Crowder serves as president of GCLEABJ. She said Blade has been a dedicated journalist since her days at The Vindicator.

“I think what stands out the most about Tyisha is her desire to tell the stories of East Cleveland as publisher of The East Clevelander Magazine,” she said. “Not only is she telling these stories, but she is also providing opportunities for other writers.”

And to think the big moment almost didn’t happen.

When Blade first enrolled at CSU as an undergraduate in 2017, her initial plan was to study public relations and began taking classes in journalism and promotional communication, with a focus more on the promotional side. However, things changed when she started working with CSU’s Vindicator Magazine during her first semester.

The rest, as they say, is history.

“I started writing and never stopped,” she said. “My earliest pieces were personal reflections, but before long, the pull toward storytelling grew stronger. What began as self-exploration evolved into something greater: a passion for writing about the community, amplifying voices, and uncovering the stories that needed to be told.”

In the years to follow, Blade’s drive never wavered, leading her to start The East Clevelander Magazine, drawing inspiration from The Vindicator as a model. 

“As Editor-in-Chief, my mission is to highlight the positive stories and resilience of the City of East Cleveland,” said Blade. Through our publication, we strive to challenge negative narratives and showcase the vibrant community that exists beyond the headlines.”

She continued to discover her passion, which became comparable to a runaway train, culminating with being named the Print Journalist of the Year, an honor she said CSU has played a pivotal role in.

“CSU has shaped my journey, providing me with the platform to grow, refine my skills, and pursue success,” said Blade. “At the time, I didn’t fully understand the impact education would have on my future, but looking back, it’s clear that it has been the foundation of my success. CSU has only amplified that growth and I’m eager to see what the future holds while making the most of the time I have left at the university.”

TAKING THINGS A STEP FURTHER

As her love for writing continued to grow, she recently founded the CSU Association of Black Journalists (CSUABJ) this past October at Cleveland State, an organization created to provide a space for Black journalists and media professionals to connect and collaborate, while amplifying important stories.

“We focus on writing and sharing narratives that impact the CSU community,” she said. “We want to shed light on issues that matter while also fostering professional growth and networking opportunities for our members.

Through it all, Blade was quick to thank the Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists for their support, guidance and a full commitment to uplifting the entire community.

“Congratulations to all the inductees and award recipients honored at the Hall of Fame Ceremony—your achievements are truly inspiring,” she said. “A special thank you to Rhonda Crowder for her fearless leadership, wisdom, and the constant encouragement she has shared with me over the years.” 

“Her impact means more than words can express.”