Media of all kinds, student-run and not, have had a difficult fall. The Trump administration’s repeated attacks on freedom of speech and the press, as well as increasing corporate influence in legacy media, have put the journalism industry in a precarious position.
The Post, however, continues to deliver editorial excellence and maintain visibility across campus, Athens County and Southeast Ohio.
Each of The Post’s sections plays a role in making our publication operate successfully. Our newsroom, which boasts 290 total staffers, has produced detailed and relevant stories across our multitude of sections. All 10 of The Post’s sections make our premier written and multimedia stories possible, bringing a cohesive synthesis of topics and platforms to report from.
Our news, human interest, sports, entertainment, opinion, photo, multimedia, audience engagement, design and copy staff have all worked together in increasingly innovative ways, building off the previous years of successful generations of Posties to make this semester incredible. Additionally, the executive editor team couldn’t be more well-rounded. My fellow executives have made my job much easier and more enjoyable than anyone could imagine.
Across various social media platforms, the numbers tell us that our audience is leaning in. Instagram crossed 2.2 million views this year, while Facebook topped 123,000 views, reflecting real momentum in how people find and share our work.
One of the most exciting parts of this semester has been participating in the Solutions Journalism Network’s Student Media Challenge. Through a $7,500 grant awarded to The Post, our staff has been able to travel across Central Appalachia pursuing stories about opioids, Appalachian identity and maternity deserts. Although there are many stories still to come with this challenge, I couldn’t be prouder of the work we’ve already put into reporting on solutions rather than solely problems, an issue that has plagued the media industry for years.
The thing I am most proud of, however, is the way each staffer has bonded this semester. I can confidently say that in my nearly three years at The Post, this is one of the most tight-knit groups I have had the privilege of being a part of. Being around such a dedicated group of people is not only energizing, but it also makes me hopeful for the future of journalism.
My chosen profession is in good hands if the leaders in The Post continue down the path they are on now. I can only imagine the successes next semester will bring.
Jackson McCoy is a junior studying journalism and environmental studies at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to share your thoughts? Let Jackson know by emailing him at jm049122@ohio.edu.
