IN MEMORIUM

Remembering
Hope Cartwright

The Virginia Living journalist who embraced adventure

SUMMER 2026

Hope Cartwright (BSJ24)

Hope Cartwright (BSJ24) spent her childhood in Traverse City, Mich., where she discovered a devotion to writing. She was the editor of her high school newspaper and a National Merit Scholar who then went on to study at Medill. A skilled storyteller, Cartwright stood out during her editorial fellowship at Washingtonian before joining Virginia Living magazine as associate editor. Her sister Abby LaPrairie reflects on Cartwright's time at Northwestern and Medill.

Hope was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident on February 16 in Richmond, Va. She was only 23 years old. At the time of her passing, she was working as the associate editor at Virginia Living magazine, a role she was incredibly proud of and one she often credited to the education, mentorship and opportunities she received at Medill.

Hope Cartwright wears a purple sweatshirt and walks with Northwestern classmates along a crowded path.

Hope was deeply passionate about journalism and immensely proud to be a Wildcat. During her time at Northwestern, she was very involved with North by Northwestern and studied abroad in Copenhagen. Those experiences meant so much to her. I watched her grow in confidence and enthusiasm during her years at Northwestern, and I truly believe the challenges, community and support she found there helped her flourish.

Hope Cartwright stands on a balcony with a blue sky and scenic city behind her.

Read Hope Cartwright's obituary.

Discover moreRead from the current issue, explore the Medill Alumni Magazine, or visit Medill.

Discover more
Read from the current issue, explore the Medill Alumni Magazine, or visit Medill.