Students in new journalism course produced more than 30 publications

Produced by Alexa Young and Avonlea Woodward

Communication and Media students helped pilot a new course dedicated to publishing their work and building professional portfolios.

The “Pressroom” was a professional practice course that functions like a professional newsroom. Students received press passes and fulfilled Utah State University’s land-grant mission by serving the public through learning, discovery, and engagement.

Much of the curriculum, including editorial leadership positions, workflow, and quality checks, was built in partnership with the national Center for Community News (CCN).

At the end of the semester, students compiled their favorite stories to present in the End of Year Showcase. The showcase was produced in conjunction with another journalism course, Writing for Electronic Media, a course dedicated to learning media production writing.

Using funds received from the 2026 Faculty Champion Award by CCN, Professional Practice Assistant Professor Erin Cox purchased new equipment for students to use while filming their showcase.

“I couldn’t be more proud of these students and their efforts,” Cox said. “We had seniors in the journalism program with excellent experience, to students who had never produced a news story before, with incredible enthusiasm, and they all were published multiple times.”

Students also helped create new opportunities and collaborations with community partners.

One student, who saw breaking news and jumped in to report on it, helped build a new collaboration with local radio station KVNU.

“Having students take the initiative and build these relationships is thrilling to see,” Cox said. “We couldn’t do what we do without our community partners. We feel so grateful for their willingness to support students and their work.”

BTS Video

Produced by Isaac Benson