Meet The State’s new service journalism reporter, Damian Bertrand

How’s it going, Columbia? I’m The State’s new service journalism reporter.

After my first exciting month on the job, I’m super happy to finally introduce myself. I cover a wide range of topics, but my main job is to write informative articles that answer readers’ questions about the community. You may have seen my article on whether utility companies can shut off your power during freezing temperatures and the recap of restaurants in the Midlands with the worst health inspections.

What to know about me

I grew up in Southern California, where I ate at In-N-Out Burger every week and surfed in my free time. After completing my sophomore year of high school in 2020, I moved to Murrells Inlet, SC. When I finished high school, I spent an amazing three and a half years at the University of South Carolina (Go Cocks), and graduated two months ago in December, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism.

Now, as a full-time reporter, I’m stoked to continue working in Columbia and serve the community I love.

In college, I served as the assistant arts and culture editor for USC’s student-run newspaper, The Daily Gamecock. I also interned at Charleston City Paper last summer, where I wrote about food insecurity, a growing housing gap in Charleston and how local businesses were dealing with Artificial Intelligence.

Here are a few more fun facts about me:

What’s my favorite breakfast place in Columbia?

SmallSUGAR has been my favorite breakfast spot since I moved to Columbia. I always get their shakshuka and almond croissant while I work on assignments in the corner. My favorite cheap breakfast option is the IHOP on Assembly Street.

What’s my favorite TV show?

I think “Severance” is possibly the greatest TV show ever made, even better than my other favorite, “Breaking Bad.” I’ve rewatched both seasons multiple times, and it somehow gets better without fail. I highly recommend watching “Severance” (on Apple TV) if you’re into dark, mysterious shows with a humorous cast.

What do I like to do outside of work?

You can catch me relaxing at different coffee shops throughout Columbia. Every couple of months, I like to find a new hiking spot to explore with friends. Whenever I visit Murrells Inlet, I try to go surfing in Garden City if conditions allow (they usually do not).

What makes working at The State special?

I used to read The State newspaper when I was in college, so it feels surreal to work at a place I’ve long respected. This is my first job out of college, and my coworkers have done so much to make me feel comfortable and confident with my work.

The best part of my job is working on a team that actually cares about helping and informing its community. Everyone is extremely competent and passionate, which makes me optimistic about my future in the newsroom.

How can you contact me?

If you’d like to reach out to me with questions , or if you think I should be focusing on a specific topic, you can always connect with me at damian.bertrand@thestate.com.

Cheers!

This story was originally published February 13, 2026 at 7:00 AM.