By Grace McAlister
Danny Federico is a Branford resident, however, her journey began in Tallahassee, Fla. She graduated from SAIL High School in 2015 and later attended Tallahassee Community College (TCC) in 2017. While enrolled at TCC she was named to the President's list one time and the Dean's list three times. At the age of 20, Federico earned her Associate's Degree from TCC, but her journey was only just beginning as she and her family moved to Branford where she was accepted into the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando.
While enrolled in online classes, Federico reached outside of her comfort zone and applied for a job as a reporter at Riverbend News. At the time, Riverbend News was in its infant stage as a new business in Live Oak. Federico worked tirelessly with its owners Cheltsie Holbrock and Emerald Greene Parsons to grow Riverbend News into a well established source of community news of Hamilton, Lafayette and Suwannee Counties.
During Federico's four years enrolled at (UCF), she had never set foot the UCF campus, although she always wished to do so. Her pride in her college became evident as she grew to become a fan of the UCF Knights. “I always try to watch the Knights on TV when they are on unless the Florida Gators were playing at the same time, then I would watch them on my phone or at least keep up with the scores,” Federico said.
On Saturday, Nov. 19, her Riverbend News family surprised her with a graduation gift as a way to say “thank you” for all she has done at Riverbend News, and to congratulate her on her accomplishments. Her co-workers and family surprised her by taking her to Orlando for a UCF Knights home football game against the Naval Academy Midshipmen. There, she joined in the fun of a Knight's football game at the UCF Stadium, also known as the bounce house.
In today's world employers look for someone with a college degree and experience. For Federico, she will have a bit of an upper hand over many of her classmates, as she has over two years of experience and now has received her Bachelor's Degree.
Throughout her career, Federico has displayed a strong work ethic and great initiative. She has climbed the ranks at Riverbend News and currently serves as Chief Editor. Federico graduated from UCF with a Bachelor's Degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Journalism on Saturday, Dec. 17. She proudly joined her classmates on campus and participated in UCF Graduation ceremonies. Federico is grateful for her family who have supported her throughout her journey and always being there for her.