Madalyn Edwards is a graduate student at Appalachian State University, where she works for The Appalachian as the News Editor. During Hurricane Helene, Madalyn was 'boots-on-the-ground' reporting. Her service to the community far outstretched the Boone town limits. With the natural disaster, a majority of Boone lost connection to the outside world, so Madalyn was their prime source of information. Madalyn's bravery is inspiring, and extremely helpful during a very scary time for many people. Madalyn, alongside other reporters of The Appalachian, have won awards for their crisis coverage.