Eyre's Career in Journalism and Investigative Reporting
The trajectory of a professional journalist is often defined by a commitment to uncovering the truth and serving the public interest. For Eyre, this journey has spanned multiple states and diverse beats, evolving from early internships to high-impact investigative work focused on the heart of West Virginia.
Educational Foundation
Eyre's professional path began with a strong academic foundation in communication. He graduated from Loyola University of New Orleans before pursuing advanced studies. He eventually earned a master's degree in Mass Communication—the study of transmitting information to large segments of the population—from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg.
While completing his graduate studies, Eyre gained practical experience as an intern at the St. Petersburg Times, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world reporting.
Early Professional Experience
Before settling into long-term reporting in West Virginia, Eyre honed his craft at several regional publications across the United States. His early career included reporting roles at:
- The Anniston Star in Alabama
- The Daily Times-Advocate in California
- The Pottstown Mercury in Pennsylvania
Tenure at the Charleston Gazette-Mail
In 1998, Eyre joined the Charleston Gazette (now known as the Charleston Gazette-Mail), a daily morning newspaper based in Charleston, West Virginia. The publication maintains a daily print circulation of approximately 37,000 readers.
During his tenure, which lasted until 2020, Eyre covered a wide array of critical sectors, including health, business, and education. He successfully balanced the demands of being a full-time statehouse reporter—a journalist assigned to cover the activities of the state government—while simultaneously leading investigative projects that brought attention to the challenges facing rural communities in West Virginia.
Investigative Leadership and Co-founding
Expanding his impact beyond traditional daily news, Eyre transitioned into a leadership role in investigative journalism. He served as a co-founder and senior investigative reporter at Mountain State Spotlight, further cementing his role as a key voice in West Virginia's media landscape.
Key Facts
- Education: Graduate of Loyola University of New Orleans and University of South Florida St. Petersburg (Master's in Mass Communication).
- Major Tenure: Spent over two decades (1998–2020) at the Charleston Gazette-Mail.
- Specializations: Education, health, business, and rural investigative reporting.
- Entrepreneurship: Co-founded Mountain State Spotlight.
- Geographic Reach: Reported in Alabama, California, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
| Period/Phase | Organization | Role/Focus |
|---|---|---|
| University Years | St. Petersburg Times | Intern |
| Early Career | Various (AL, CA, PA) | Reporter |
| 1998–2020 | Charleston Gazette-Mail | Statehouse & Investigative Reporter |
| Recent | Mountain State Spotlight | Co-founder & Senior Investigative Reporter |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Eyre earn his master's degree?
Eyre earned his master's degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg.
Which newspapers did Eyre work for before moving to West Virginia?
He reported for The Anniston Star of Alabama, the Daily Times-Advocate of California, and the Pottstown Mercury of Pennsylvania.
What was Eyre's role at the Charleston Gazette-Mail?
Eyre served as a full-time statehouse reporter and conducted investigative projects focusing on rural West Virginia communities from 1998 to 2020.
What is the circulation of the Charleston Gazette-Mail?
The newspaper has a daily print circulation of approximately 37,000.
What role did Eyre play at Mountain State Spotlight?
Eyre was a co-founder and served as a senior investigative reporter for the organization.