Empowering future storytellers
By the time Mariana Prieto arrived on Elon University’s campus this summer, the rising high school senior from Queens, New York, had already built an impressive résumé: senior editor of her school newspaper, a student intern on a New York City Council campaign, and a contributor to Teens for Press Freedom, a youth-led journalism advocacy group.
But despite that experience, Prieto says she found something unique in Elon’s Emerging Journalists Program (EJP).
“Every day was filled with such valuable information,” she said. “I loved conducting interviews, writing articles and receiving feedback, constructing our broadcasts, and designing the newspaper layout. I know I will take with me everything I learned – not just how to edit, but the practice of a strong work ethic and preparing myself for the future.”
Prieto was one of 18 students selected for EJP’s fourth Immersion cohort, a 12-day, university-funded workshop for rising high school seniors interested in journalism and communications. Representing eight states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, students earned college credit while working in a newsroom, attending workshops, and receiving mentorship from Elon undergraduates.
“Mariana represents the kind of curious, motivated student we hope to reach through EJP,” said Colin Donohue, EJP program director and assistant professor of journalism. “She brought a strong background to the table, but still approached every assignment with a learning mindset.”
In addition to producing a newspaper and news broadcast, the students toured Trailblazer Studios and WTVD-TV, where they met anchor Steve Daniels P’23. They also visited the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, conducted a press conference with Rep. Reneé Price, explored the state Capitol, and attended a Winston-Salem Dash baseball game.
Zoya Balakrishnan, a rising senior from Warren, New Jersey, said the experience “solidified my goal to pursue communications.”
Launched in 2021 through a Scripps Howard Fund grant, the Emerging Journalists Program is now supported by Elon University. EJP received a record 170 applications this year; all applicants were invited to the program’s virtual Exposure experience in the spring.
Donohue credited the program’s success to the contributions of curriculum coordinator Kelly Furnas and the many Elon faculty and staff involved. “EJP happens because of a dedicated team that believes in the power of an Elon education,” he said.
As of fall 2025, 16 former EJP students are enrolled at Elon.
In summer 2024, the Coalition completed a successful leadership transition. Former Director Brooks Fuller accepted a new role as research director for American Oversight. Following a national search, Pate McMichael – previously associate director of the University of Arizona School of Journalism – assumed the role of director in September. Coalition Board President Robyn Tomlin, chief news officer for McClatchy, praised McMichael’s appointment, citing his deep experience in journalism and his strong advocacy for open records.
Over the past five years, the Workshop – first led by Melanie Sill and later by Shannan Bowen – championed local news access and quality across the state. Through its popular NC Local weekly newsletter and efforts in convening, connecting, and building capacity, the Workshop prioritized inclusivity and support for communities historically underserved by traditional media.
