Rick Wiley

Rick Wiley is an expert in the field of photojournalism, bringing a wealth of experience and a keen eye for storytelling through imagery to his role as a Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona's School of Journalism. With a career spanning several decades, Wiley has made significant contributions to the field, both as a practitioner and an educator. Wiley's journey in photojournalism began at the Tucson Citizen, where he honed his skills as a staff photographer. His talent and dedication quickly propelled him to the role of photo and graphics editor at the East Valley Tribune. In 2004, he took on the position of director of photography at the Arizona Daily Star, a role in which he excelled by leading his team through the coverage of pivotal events, including the tragic 2011 mass shooting at a local Safeway. His leadership and vision were instrumental in capturing the essence of these events through powerful imagery. Throughout his career, Wiley has been recognized for his outstanding work in photography. In 2022, he was awarded first place for news photography by the Arizona Newspapers Association, a testament to his ability to capture compelling stories through his lens. Under his guidance, the photo staffs he has led have also garnered numerous state and national awards, further cementing his reputation as a leader in the field. Wiley's academic background includes a bachelor's degree in journalism from Arizona State University, which laid the foundation for his successful career. His commitment to education and mentorship is evident in his role at the University of Arizona, where he shares his expertise and passion for photojournalism with the next generation of journalists. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Wiley is known for his dedication to fostering a collaborative and innovative environment within his teams. His approach to photojournalism emphasizes not only technical skill but also the importance of storytelling and ethical journalism. As an educator, he inspires his students to push the boundaries of traditional journalism and explore new ways of engaging audiences through visual media. Rick Wiley's contributions to the field of photojournalism and his impact as an educator continue to resonate within the journalism community. His work serves as an inspiration to aspiring photojournalists and a reminder of the power of visual storytelling in shaping public discourse and understanding.