Today I had the duty of getting Bill Hayes', Florida A&M Universities former athletic director's, side of the story. Hayes was laid off in addition to a few others in his department. According to his statements released in the FAMUAN Newspaper, he said there was no warning signs of disapproval of his work ethic, he has been there for over 30 years and all of a sudden President Ammons decides to "go in a different direction," without explanation.
I started off my news day by calling Mr. Hayes to see if I could schedule an interview. Surprisingly yet understandable I spoke with him and he declined the interview. He told me he doesn't have anything else to say on the subject and that he has said enough. Being a reporter and needing to get the story, I tried to convince hayes to still do the interview by saying "this is his time to get his side of the story out." He thanked me for the opportunity but still declined the interview.
To bounce back from this, I contacted my producer, Jamesha Moore, and informed her of what happened. We ended up making the story a VO and I proceeded tot he athletic department to get b-roll of the building, the trophies inside of gaither gym, other athletic signs and anything that could get across the story visually without the actual video of Hayes and his soundbite. I did my best, but thats not always enough in the reporting world. This was an awakening and eye opening experience of the reality of the real world. All I could wonder was what if this was my actual job and source of income? Would my job be on the line because he didn't respond?
We did however announce that he denied any further comments so the effort to get his side of the story did take place.. Great news day,
Until next time...
Brandon
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