Issuu

MASS MEDIA MESSENGER

MESSENGER

WASHBURN UNIVERSITY

ON THE RECORD SPRING 2026

6 - 11 Industry

Hear directly from industry professionals on the ever changing world of mass media. Between the continued rise of AI and the growing importance of human connection, these professionals share their insights.

12 - 21 Department

As the media industry continues to grow, so does the Department of Mass Media. Between major renovations, new programs and plenty of big ideas, take a peek behind the curtain to see how the mass media department is navigating it all.

CONT

22 - 27 Faculty

From teaching new classes to leading new projects, mass media faculty have been busy this semester. This section will bring you up to speed on their lives and their exciting next chapter.

28 - 39 Alumni

Catch up with where life has taken our mass media alumni since graduation. From career milestones to new adventures, this section highlights the accomplishments and stories that continue to shape our alumni network.

TENTS 40 - 47 Student Lives

Get a glimpse into the lives of mass media students as we dive into the complex conversation around student athlete mental health, and our students’ experiences participating in both national and international programs.

Dear Readers,

MESSENGER

A Letter From the Editor & Director

Left: Brigton Bivens, Right: Taylor Rottinghaus

Welcome to the Spring 2026 issue of the Mass Media Messenger, the online magazine that showcases the work and accomplishments of Washburn Mass Media students, faculty, and alumni. Our alumni are the heart of our department. Without your continued support, we would not be able to share all of these special achievements. We’re thankful for all the alumni who partner with us and let us tell their stories. As always, we have many more stories to tell, and we look forward to hearing yours. Our theme for this issue, On the Record, celebrates the power of documenting our history and the authentic voices that define it. This theme highlights the tangible impact our alumni are making in the world. From career pivots to community leadership, these stories serve as a permanent record of where we’ve been and where we are going. In an era of digital curation, we are proud to put these achievements ‘on the record’ for the next generation of storytellers. On behalf of the Messenger staff, thank you for your continued support. We hope you enjoy the Spring 2026 Mass Media Messenger.

Editor-in-Chief

Brighton Bivens Art Director

Taylor Rottinghaus

Mass Media Messenger Spring 2026 Volume 37, Issue 1 Editor-in-Chief: Brighton Bivens Art Director: Taylor Rottinghaus Staff: Malik Arafat Jaema Bordelon Genoveva Byuylekova Lexi Dean Gaviena Frank Amirah Gibbs Lexi Hittle Melina Scherer Tristan Scott Deja Vanderbilt Faculty Editors: Kristen Grimmer Regina Cassell Maria Stover Faculty Adviser: Taryn Reed The Mass Media Messenger is a departmental alumni magazine created by Washburn University students in MM403 Advanced Professional Media Writing. All issues are available online at issuu.com/massmediamessenger

Staff in Action

SOCIAL MEDIA HAS BECOME THE NEW FRONT PAGE by Lexi Hittle

Social media has evolved from a communication platform that allowed users to connect with friends to the place where most people consume their news. Social media has become the new front page. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X and other platforms have become the main source for individuals searching for news. “I think I mostly just get news while scrolling,” said Eden Conrad, junior journalism major. “Then I see something, and I’m like, ‘What is that?’ Then, I Google it and find AP News or a trusted news source I like.” On social media, anyone can comment on a subject. There are accurate and inaccurate details shared by influencers, politicians and even some news organizations. “This is where fact-checking comes in,” said Nora Krehbiel, sophomore journalism major. “A lot of times influencers are like ‘I saw this, and this happened,’ and I’ll go, ‘Okay, but that could also be your opinion of the matter.’ So I definitely have to go and double-check.” Although news being shared on social media isn’t always accurate, news organizations still have to use it in this day and age. It is the fastest way to reach the most people. Chris Jones, associate professor of religious studies, said he strives to lead by example and show his students helpful tips when researching and trusting news. “It’s my job to only spread reliable news,” Jones said. “I think Gen Z folks have a healthy skepticism for internet stuff. Oftentimes, my students will ask me questions because they’ve heard something, and they’re like ‘that seems fishy.’ So they want to know more about it from an expert.” People can develop habits to better distinguish between factual news and misinformation. This starts with researching the posts and headlines that pop up on social media feeds. “We need to be able to form our own opinions, even if that means a little extra research,” Krehbiel said. Researching all sides of an issue will also give people a better understanding of what happened. 6

This means finding trustworthy news organizations that lean left and that lean right. “It challenges your views and forces you to be more aware of why you think what you think,” Jones said. Every social media platform has an algorithm. Algorithms show people more content similar to content they have interacted with. “If you have personal biases that you may not even be aware of, the algorithm sees it,” Krehbiel said. “It starts seeing you click on certain videos or types of videos. It’s confirmation bias and it keeps saying ‘Oh, you’re right,’ instead of challenging you by showing you different sides of the story.” The algorithm craves engagement. It wants people to spend their day scrolling. By seeing what content people are engaging with, it creates an idea of who they are and what they are more likely to engage with. “It is clearly driven to drive clicks,” Jones said. “You linger for an extra half second on one thing and suddenly everything you get is about that.” News-related posts often use a scare tactic to drive emotion and make viewers stop and ponder the information. “I think it’s very dangerous,” Jones said. “It creates different neural pathways so that we become used to getting news More than half that alarms us of people get and scares us. It gives us a rise news from because that’s networks like what keeps us Facebook, X, coming back.”

54%

and YouTube.

- Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism

THE HEART OF JOURNALISM: COMMUNICATION by Malik Arafat

In an era of instant alerts and social media silos, two Washburn University alumni argue that the heart of journalism isn’t the platform—it’s the person. For Corey Jones, ‘09, and Charlie Rankin, ’18 the job has evolved into a high-stakes exercise in clear communication and trust. Jones , now part of the public service journalism team with Lee Enterprises in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has spent over a decade honing this craft. After getting his start at the Topeka Capital-Journal, Jones has learned that digital presence is no substitute for physical presence. “Putting an actual face to the byline is helpful,” Jones said. “You lose that when you’re just on social media. It’s vital to have those face-to-face conversations—or at least Zoom—to maintain interpersonal interaction.” This philosophy proved critical when Jones covered a tragic high-speed chase. While other outlets pressured the grieving family for soundbites, Jones offered condolences and “space.” By building a relationship off-the-record first, he earned their trust. The family eventually chose to speak only to him, citing his empathy over the deadline-driven

photo courtesy of Charles Rankin

“bugging” of other reporters. Rankin , a reporter for the USA Today Network in Salina, Kansas, echoes this sentiment. As the sole reporter on the ground in his community, Rankin views communication as a safeguard against a “lonely world” devoid of context. “Without the human part of communication, everything would lose trust and depth,” Rankin said. For him, “getting it right” isn’t just a professional standard—it’s a responsibility to the neighbors he sees every day. This emphasis on the “human element” starts in the classroom. Regina Cassell, senior lecturer of mass media and director of Student Media, views journalism and communication as inseparable. “Humans need other humans,” Cassell said. “There is no replacement for the learning that happens when people work in one physical space.” While the tools of the trade continue to shift, the core of journalism remains unchanged. Clear communication and human connection turn information into stories — bringing communities together.

photo courtesy of Corey Jones

MEDIA RECOMMENDED BY THE MASSES by Jaema Bordelon In today’s world, attention spans are constantly being pulled in a million different directions and sometimes it can feel impossible to find a piece of quality content that isn’t created solely for shock factor or money. At its best, media, whether it’s a novel or a podcast, a movie or an album, has the ability to make us think

and change our perspective. Sometimes it can simply offer comfort or entertainment when it’s needed the most. These mass media faculty and students have each found a piece of media that holds a special place in their heart and hopefully it will resonate with you as well.

Ayva Darmento, junior in the film and video concentration, said she recommends “Don’t Look Up,” a film directed by Adam McKay. “I think it does a great job of showcasing our current political climate,” Darmento said. “It touches on the fact that the political party system can be a point of divide in our society today and can really hinder us from getting the answers to the problems that we have.”

Nora Krehbiel, sophomore in the journalism concentration, said she encourages people to watch the 2021 film “West Side Story,” a film directed by Steven Spielberg. “It’s a very complex movie that talks about why we shouldn’t discriminate against people based on what we think about them or who we think they are,” Krehbiel said. “It shows that hatred on both sides leads to a bigger problem.”

Taryn Reed, alumna and adjunct professor, said she urges people to read “Weyward,” a book by Emilia Hart. “It tells the story of three different women that are connected throughout history,” Reed said. “It’s about women navigating historical expectations, discovering their own strength, and ultimately breaking free from generational patterns that try to define them.” 8

Tristan Scott, junior in advertising and public relations concentration, recommends the movie “Chicken Run,” directed by Peter Lord and Nick Park. “It’s visually stunning. They’re all made of clay, which I think is fierce,” Scott said. “I think it sends a good message that shows you can control your own destiny.”

Deja Vanderbilt, junior in the advertising and public relations concentration, suggests listening to the musical album “The Art of Loving,” by singer and songwriter Olivia Dean. “The messaging behind a lot of the songs is really sentimental and it has a lot of emotional depth,” Vanderbilt said. “It’s a good album that a lot of people can relate to, and it’s about a very human experience which is the art of loving others and enjoying the life that you live.”

Melina Scherer, senior in advertising and public relations emphasis, said she recommends the musical album “Starting Over,” by singer and songwriter Chris Stapleton. “Everybody has at least one time in their life where they probably have to start over,” Scherer said. “It talks a lot about friends, new and old, joys in life and simple things.”

Lexi Hittle, a senior in the advertising and public relations concentration, believes that everyone should watch the ABC show “The Rookie.” “I think ‘The Rookie’ is very funny and every generation can get something out of it,” Hittle said. “I like the drama of it, but it's also made me more aware as a person...and made me more observant.” 9

WHERE IS THE LINE? Balancing efficiency and ethics in the classroom and the workforce. by Tristan Scott and Genoveva Byuylekova

No matter where you work, how you study or even how you browse the web, artificial intelligence resources are always in our faces. For students, this raises the question of where the line is for AI use in the professional world. Media professionals, students and professors at Washburn have found ways to integrate AI into their everyday lives, but finding where that line is has become increasingly complicated. Kendall Brungardt, sophomore mass media and English major, has taken on extra coursework in order to achieve her AI literacy certificate to better understand these new tools. “We can’t escape AI anymore, so it’s really important to have an understanding of how it works, and how it’s being interpreted, especially for creative endeavors,” Brungardt said. For Brungardt, AI is something she mainly uses for smaller tasks, opting to avoid AI usage on a larger scale. She uses it to better set herself up for success rather than to complete an entire assignment. “AI can be helpful for things like transcribing interviews or breaking down assignment sheets, which saves time and helps with productivity,” Brungardt said. “If I’m not spending hours organizing due dates or creating spreadsheets, I can start working on actual assignments sooner.” A concern was raised about fellow students who rely too heavily on AI in the classroom. Brungardt began seeing AI pop up in her work life, as well as major assignments for several of her classes. Although Brungardt avoids using AI in her personal life, she sees how her friends and family use it, and sometimes she can’t help but use it for entertainment as well. “We all use AI without intending to through social media algorithms, Google searches, Netflix recommendations,” 10

Brungardt said. “It’s built for convenience, so it’s hard to ignore. I find myself paying attention to what Netflix tells me to watch or what Spotify curates for me.” AI is a topic that affects not only students and their futures but also professors and how their teaching methods will change as AI develops. Currently, Washburn is working to integrate AI into its coursework, so students have experience with the tools. “We can’t realistically tell students not to use AI because when they enter the workforce, their jobs are going to expect them to be familiar with it,” said Matthew Nyquist, associate professor of mass media. “If we don’t teach them how to use it, we’re doing them a disservice.” Along with being a professor, Nyquist works more creatively as a film writer/director, complicating his relationship with AI tools, especially those directed at image creation.

Kendall Brungardt works on an assignment. She used AI tools to break down the instructions. Photo courtesy of Kendall Brungardt.

“There’s a certain humanity that a real actor or artist brings to their work, and that’s part of why we connect with it,” Nyquist said. “When you remove that human element, you risk people not connecting with the work in the same way.” Similar to Brungardt, Nyquist shared fears about students’ misuse of AI tools within a classroom environment, citing overuse of AI as a growing issue. “Anything you let AI do for you completely means you’re replaceable because a company could just have an AI model do that instead,” Nyquist said. “We try to emphasize using AI in a way that supports your work, but doesn’t become your work.” One of the main ways Nyquist highlights AI usage in his classroom is by having his students use it for smaller tasks, such as organization or prep work, rather than doing an entire assignment using ChatGPT. “It’s not about banning AI; it’s about teaching ethical use,” Nyquist said. “If students understand how to use it responsibly and creatively, then it becomes a win across the board.” Annie Flachsbarth, director of strategic communications at Advisors Excel, uses AI tools on a day-to-day basis in order to keep her team on track. “It felt like we suddenly had a new employee we didn’t interview,” Flachsbarth said. “No one trusted

it at first, but we knew we had to figure it out or fall behind competitors.” Although at first, Flachsbarth and her team were wary about AI, as they’ve explored the programs more, they now recognize AI as a time-saving tool. “We started using AI as an intern, giving it the tasks that were time-consuming, mundane or things we didn’t like to do,” Flachsbarth said. For Flachsbarth, one of the biggest benefits of AI in the workplace is helping her with her writer’s block when starting a story. “What I love about using AI for a first draft is that you’re no longer starting from nothing,” Flachsbarth said. “So much of the struggle of being a creative professional is just getting started. Once you have something on the page, even if it’s not perfect, you can shape it, improve it and elevate it much faster.” Like Nyquist, Flachsbarth can see potential ethical concerns regarding AI, but mostly due to the threat of over-utilization of AI. “If you’re using AI from start to finish and not putting in the work to make it your own, it’s really obvious,” Flachsbarth said. “You risk losing your audience.” As students get closer to graduation, they have fears of what AI skills they should know before joining the workforce, but Flachsbarth only looks for one in potential candidates. “The biggest skill is not giving up. If it doesn’t give you what you want the first time, try again,” Flachsbarth said. “Adjust your approach, even if it takes a few tries.” Flachsbarth disagrees with voices like Nyquist and Brungardt, who fear that AI could potentially replace employees altogether. “Half of my job was helping the team realize this was just another tool, like Microsoft Word or spell check, and not something that was going to take their job,” Flachsbarth said. “Your job might change, but it may also give you more opportunities to focus on the things you actually enjoy doing.”

THE WASHBURN REVIEW: IN REVIEW by Jaema Bordelon In 1885, college students huddled together around the very first edition of the Washburn Argo. This simple student-led paper was the beginning of a long list of publications aimed at keeping the Washburn campus informed and providing students with a platform to share their voices. What the students couldn’t have known at the time was that they were not very different from students in 2025 standing around Mac computers

polishing up the weekly Review newsletter. Although the staff changes every year, all the Review reporters, regardless of age or major, remain united across time by the same passion to document the dramatic changes of the campus and represent the student body of Washburn University. Student Media has adapted to changing times, and the paper has shifted along with the world.

Ande Davis, ‘06, was editor-in-chief of the Review for the 2004 -05 school year. Davis witnessed the transition of Student Media entering the digital age. In the early 2000s, the Review was still a physical paper, being printed weekly. At that time the paper made its switch from film photography to buying their first ever digital camera. The Review had a mix of physical and online content with some of the first ever web exclusive content consisting of coverage of the Topeka

Tarantula’s, a minor league hockey team. Davis credits his time as editor in chief as where he learned valuable lessons on work ethic, leadership, and collaborating with peers. “It was a lot of great skills that kind of transferred out to a lot of different stuff,” Davis said. “It kind of helped me grow up a little bit, become a more productive student and eventually a scholar. It helped when I got into grad school and law school to rely on a lot of those skills.”

Sarah Towle, ‘07, was editor in chief of the Review during the 2006 - 2007 school year. Washburn Transformational Experiences were just being introduced and Towle would report on the topic and frequently interview Washburn administrators, such as Vice President of Academic Affairs, Ron Wasserstein, and University President, Jerry Farley. Towle credits the relationships she formed while

in Student Media as helping her get into grad school and finding her current job. Wasserstein, despite being a former faculty member of the Washburn Department of Mathematics and Statistics, was also a former editor of the Review when he attended Washburn. “Wasserstein was very supportive but we really made sure to cross our t’s and dot our i’s so we could back up everything [we published,]” Towle said.

Washburn Review’s logo from 2008 - 2009

Washburn Review’s logo in 2019

Alyssa Storm, ‘23, was editor in chief from May 2021 - October 2022. With COVID and social distancing changing the dynamic of the Review team, Director of Student Media, Regina Cassell, suggested that the organization pivot their weekly publication to a more modern era. “We obviously couldn’t put newspapers in our stands because no one was on campus” Storm said. “Regina figured that we could really step into this

digital era and have a newsletter.” Storm subscribed to newsletters from all sorts of organizations and companies to gather inspiration. “It was just creating something from nothing and starting from scratch and a lot of trial and error,” Storm said. “I had a team of reporters, but then when it came to designing and laying out the newsletter. It was just me putting it together. It was weird, it took away a lot of the collaborative efforts which COVID did in a lot of ways.”

Justin Shepard, ‘22, was editor in chief from October 2022 until his graduation in December. After the isolation caused by COVID, Shepard worked hard to bring back an emphasis on the teamwork aspect of Student Media. He said they all became tight knit due to their shared pride and

passion for the job. “It felt good to be doing something that mattered. How often do you get to run a newspaper?” Shepard said. “We wanted to serve the students as honestly and as ethically as we possibly could. I feel like we lived up to that. Everybody did a great job.”

Current Washburn Review logo 13

INTERNSHIPS SHAPE MASS MEDIA CAREERS by Lexi Dean

Internships are typically the first time students step out of a classroom setting and into the fastpaced professional world. Deadlines seem tighter and expectations feel higher. This transition is where classroom knowledge starts to become a practical skill. In the mass media program, internships are not treated as an optional side quest. Internships are required and an essential part of preparing students for a professional career. “A classroom is still a classroom,” said Maria Stover, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and mass media professor. “It is not a fully authentic work environment.” Internships help bridge that gap by placing students in real organizations where they are expected to contribute, collaborate, communicate and problemsolve as part of a team.

A study by Hart Research Associates found that 94% of employers prefer to hire recent college graduates who have completed successful internships. Stover said that kind of experience allows students to build both technical and professional skills that cannot be fully replicated through coursework alone. Beyond skill development, internships can also play a significant role in future job searching. A study by Hart Research Associates found that 94% of employers prefer to hire recent college graduates who have completed successful internships. This preference reflects how closely internship experience aligns with workplace readiness. In mass media fields, where portfolios and adaptable skill sets matter as much as degrees,

internships can help students stand out in an increasingly competitive job market. Internships often help students gain experience with tools and workflows they will use in their careers, from content creation and analytics to writing, editing and visual design. They also learn how to operate within professional environments, where communication, feedback and collaboration are part of daily work. Hannah Andersen, ‘25, said her internship experience helped her understand how classroom skills translate into real expectations. “You can learn about it all you want in class, but actually being able to apply the things that we learned makes such a big difference,” Andersen said. Now working as a marketing and administrative assistant at Kirk & Cobb Inc., Realtors in Topeka, Andersen uses the skills she developed during her internship to manage social media and create content. Andersen said one of the most valuable lessons was learning how to work more efficiently and confidently in a fast-paced environment. “Don’t be afraid to choose something that is not necessarily perfect for you because there are still valuable skills you can learn from doing anything,” Andersen said. Internships can also help students determine whether a specific career path is the right fit before committing to it long term. Exposure through daily responsibilities can confirm interests or prompt students to set completely different goals. “It is the moment where students begin to see themselves not just as learners, but as professionals entering the field,” Stover said. For mass media students, the internship requirement is less about checking a box and more about preparing for what comes next. “The difference is what you put into it,” Andersen said. “If you treat it like a learning experience, you will get something out of it.”

FACULTY BALANCE FUNDAMENTALS AND CHANGE by Brighton Bivens

Midway through the fall 2025 semester, adjunct professor Taryn Reed looked at her 16-week lesson plan and quietly set it aside. After dedicating one week to generative artificial intelligence in digital marketing, Reed realized how important adding another lecture on the emerging tool would be to students. The class she’d spent weeks designing suddenly felt behind. She scrapped the schedule, pivoted, and added another section on AI weeks after teaching the first. Mid-course corrections are not unusual in the mass media department. For mass media faculty the curriculum is less of a fixed document, and more of a living draft with revisions each semester, sometimes each week, to keep pace with an industry that never idles. Kristen Grimmer, associate professor and mass media chair, said staying current isn’t a formal process, but a professional disposition. “I am always paying attention to what’s going on and what is being impacted,” Grimmer said. Maria Stover, associate professor and associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, grounds the challenge in history. Radio gave way to television, print migrated online, and the internet rewired everything. AI is the latest chapter, not a departure from the pattern. “There’s almost this understanding, whether it’s implicit or explicit, that you’ll be part of a field that

TRIED AND TRUE

will ask you to adopt another ongoing attitude of learning and adapting,” Stover said. Faculty stay ahead through independent research, outside certifications, alumni surveys, and regular employer outreach, asking directly what skills the industry is hiring for and where recent graduates are falling short.

“AI is a great intern, but a terrible boss.” The arrival of generative AI has sharpened and complicated that obligation. All three faculty members named it the industry’s most pressing challenge, though none expressed fear that it would hollow out their field. The concern stems from understanding students might confuse the ability to generate an image or draft a paragraph with actual media expertise. “Just because you can generate a graphic, does not mean that you are a storyteller,” Grimmer said. “It doesn’t mean understanding strategy or knowing what actually resonates with an audience.” Grimmer’s preferred metaphor captures the relationship between human judgment and AI capability. “AI is a great intern, but a terrible boss,” Grimmer said. She said she tells students to use it to refine a sentence or spark an idea, but never ask it for direction because the moment you do, you’ve handed over the thinking that makes you valuable. The antidote, all three faculty agree, is a firm grip on fundamentals. Fundamentals are things no algorithm update can make obsolete. Writing, critical thinking, ethical judgment, communication, leadership, and the ability to forge human connection are core skills allowing students to navigate whatever comes next.

photos courtesy of Addison Vest

WIFI FILM FESTIVAL BUILDS FILMMAKERS IN TOPEKA by Melina Scherer

The doors of the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library swung open on Saturday, April 11, as students hurried between screenings, workshops and conversations about cameras, scripts and careers that once felt far away. Washburn University’s WIFI Film Festival looked less like a campus event and more like a working industry hub. Alumni returned from Los Angeles. A Hollywood producer answered questions about breaking into the industry. Student films played beside nationally recognized work. Between sessions, first-year students traded ideas with graduates already building careers. This year’s featured guest was Sebastian Twardosz, a Los Angeles-based producer and filmmaker who traveled to Topeka after developing a friendship with Matthew Nyquist, WIFI founding executive director and mass media associate professor. Nyquist said he wanted to bring in someone from the business side of filmmaking.

“I don’t think I would have made the connections I did and decided to go to grad school if I hadn’t started with WIFI.” “I’m all about practical experience,” Nyquist said. “Having someone like Twardosz, who has dealt with so many real-world situations, directly interact with people is very important.” Twardosz said what stood out most was not the schedule or the speakers, but the culture of the event. “I really like that Matthew has created a community here where all the students seem to really get along well, and they’re rooting for each other,” Twardosz said. “It feels like a really good place to develop your skills as a filmmaker.”

Twardosz told students that careers in entertainment are possible, even if progress is slow. “All these things are achievable,” Twardosz said. “It might take longer than you want it to take, and there might be roadblocks, but you have to stick with it.” That message landed in a room full of students trying to picture their own next steps. The festival also welcomed back Washburn alumni Adin Replogle, ‘23, and Jessica Seidel, ‘24, both now studying at the University of Southern California. Replogle, who spoke about sound production, said returning as a presenter felt surreal after attending as a student. He said he was impressed by current Washburn students. “They were remarkable and tenacious,” Replogle said. “It was very nice to see.” Seidel, who previously worked on WIFI’s leadership team, said the festival shaped her own future in film. “I don’t think I would have made the connections that I did and decided to go to grad school if I hadn’t started with WIFI,” Seidel said. Now finishing a master’s degree in screenwriting, she urged students to keep creating. “Don’t get in your head,” Seidel said. “Things don’t have to be perfect. The imperfections are kind of what make it amazing and human.” Nyquist said the festival received about 100 film submissions this year and screened 45 films. One project used the festival as its premiere. Another screening included a film connected to Twardosz. Just days after the event ended, Nyquist reopened submissions for next year. The first entry arrived immediately. “I try not to think about it for a few months,” Nyquist said. “But WIFI 2027 is already underway.” That pace reflects that WIFI has become an ongoing bridge between Topeka classrooms and the wider film world.

SPORT & EVENT MEDIA Mass Media and Kinesiology Departmens Launch New Major by Amirah Gibbs & Gaviena Frank

photo courtesy of Washburn Athletics

The mass media and kinesiology departments are partnering up to introduce an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts degree called Sport and Event Media in fall 2026. Some students are ready to declare the new major as soon as it’s fully in the new 2026-2027 undergraduate catalog. Freshman Josie Kraus came to Washburn unsure of whether she could turn her passion for sports photography into a career. She originally selected as mass media major with a concentration in advertising and public relations, but said it never felt like the right fit. When her adviser told her about the new major, it clicked. “I’ve always had a passion for sports, and I’ve always had a passion for photography,” Kraus said. “Once I heard this was being offered as an actual major, I was like, ‘Okay, perfect. That’s totally what I want to do.’” Kristen Grimmer, mass media chair and associate professor, began developing the curriculum in July 2025 after John Fritch, provost and vice president of Academic Affiars, and Beth O’Neill, associate provost and sociology professor, urged the mass media department to consider a degree in sports media. “Our big goal is to bring in external students to Washburn for this program,” Grimmer

said. “There is no program quite like it regionally since it puts together mass media and sport management classes, and I wanted to do something that was very different from traditional sports broadcasting programs, which seem to be at many of our competitor institutions.” Grimmer said this program falls more into the strategic communication side of things and focuses on branding, fan experience and marketing. The degree requires 120 credit hours and the completion of a minor. Designed as a hands-on program, it combines media skills with the business side of sports. Students will take unique mass media classes like sports media writing, sports video production, and sports branding & promotion from the mass media department. On the kinesiology side, courses will cover sport logistics, including facility and event management, legal issues in sports, and organization and governance in sports. In their final year, students will complete both an internship and a career development course to prepare them for the job market. This degree will give students like Kraus a path to turn their interests into a professional career in the sports industry.

ONE DAY, BIG IMPACT Day of Giving Supports Washburn Mass Media Students

by Melina Scherer On a typical day at Washburn, you can find mass media students editing videos in the lab, recording podcasts or preparing projects for competitions and film festivals. Much of that hands-on experience is made possible through the annual Day of Giving, a 24-hour fundraising event that directly supports students across campus. Maria Stover, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of mass media, said the event represents a rare moment where the entire Washburn community can come together for a shared purpose. “As faculty, we’re always trying to support students,” Stover said. “But Day of Giving creates one day where everyone can come together and make a big impact.” The money raised helps fund mass media department scholarships, support professional opportunities and maintain technology for students. According to Kristen Grimmer, chair of the mass media department and associate professor, these contributions help ensure that students have access to the same equipment used by professionals. “We use a lot of technology, and technology is expensive,” Grimmer said. “Day of Giving helps us update software, maintain equipment, and provide those resources without charging students additional fees.”

The scholarships funded through the campaign also help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing careers in media and communications. Regina Cassell, senior lecturer of mass media, said that the campaign succeeds largely because of alumni participation. “It’s not about the size of the gift,” Cassell said. “It’s about participation and alumni recognizing that they received something valuable from Washburn and choosing to give back.” Cassell often reconnects with former students through professional networks, encouraging them to support the department and the next generation of media professionals. For many students, the impact of the generosity can be life changing. For example, Jaema Bordelon, senior mass media major, said donor support helps students focus on their education while gaining valuable experiences. “It really opens up the world for students,” Bordelon said. “Scholarships, study abroad opportunities and access to professional equipment all enhance the quality of education we receive.” Although Day of Giving lasts only one day each year, the resources it provides continue to support mass media students long after the campaign ends.

Dollars raised in total for Washburn university

Gifts to the Mass Media Department

Dollars raised for the mass media department 19

NETWORKING ON CAMPUS

Jaema Bordelon attended the Speed Networking event to speak with media professionals. She showed her press releases from class to Grace Hoge, the press secretary for Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. by Lexi Hittle Student Media partnered with the mass media department to host a unique on-campus event called “Speed Networking” in late April. The purpose of this event was to give students an opportunity to connect with media professionals and have their work critiqued. “The event was set up like speed dating, where each student had 10 minutes to show their work to a professional and ask any questions they had,” said Lexi Hittle, marketing manager at Student Media and the event coordinator. Media specialists across the industry reviewed students’ work and answered a variety of questions. There was a diverse range of professionals in attendance including journalists, photographers, producers, advertisers, public relations specialists, and social media managers, all available to offer their expertise to students. Kendall Brungardt, sophomore mass media and English major, said she thinks this event was exciting and important for mass media students. “Networking situations usually aren’t suitable

for showing portfolios or asking those questions,” Brungardt said. Brungardt said that events like the Career Fair can often feel competitive and stressful to try and meet as many people as possible. “At this event, you didn’t have to worry about missing someone or taking too much of someone’s time,” Brungardt said. Leah Jamison, ‘22, assistant director of social media, strategic communications and marketing at Washburn participated in the event. “This event is a good opportunity to directly connect with people in a specific field,” Jamison said. Jamison said that while networking isn’t always easy, it is always worth it. “You never know what opportunities those relationships will create,” Jamison said. Junior Eden Conrad connected with Sherman Smith, editor-in-chief of the Kansas Reflector, who gave her some valuable industry insight.

FACULTY FINDS COMMUNITY AT KTWU by Malik Arafat

The mass media department is among several programs temporarily relocated as Henderson Learning Resources Center is renovated and renamed Advisors Excel Hall. Construction is on schedule, with the new building expected to be open for classes during the spring 2027 semester. Before the final locations were finalized, Maria Stover, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of mass media, spoke with Val VanDerSluis, general manager of KTWU. “I talked with the department team leads to see if they had any open areas,” VanDerSluis said. “We found a couple of office areas within our development and programming departments that had empty spaces large enough to house more than one person.” Stover said KTWU quickly became the preferred option for the majority of the department because of the existing relationship between KTWU and mass media. “I think it proved to be exactly what I was hoping for,” Stover said. “Strengthening our relationships and working together. We even added two KTWU fellowships, in addition to two student interns.” Sam Finch and Dean Krueger, share a two-person office, both lecturers of mass media. Kristen Grimmer, department chair, shares a larger office with Matthew Nyquist, associate professor, and Tracy Horacek, an office coordinator for the College of Arts & Sciences. Stover remained in her office at the College of Arts and Sciences building and Regina Cassell, senior lecturer and director of Student Media, relocated

Lecturer Sam Finch checks his email in his shared space with Lecturer Dean Krueger. He has enjoyed getting to know folks at KTWU. photo by Malik Arafat

Lecturer Dean Krueger owns a plushie of Donkey Hodie, the main character of PBS’s puppet live action musical, “Donkey Hodie,” As an animator, Krueger loved the impressive puppetry and how the characters were interacting upon first gaze. photo courtesy of Dean Krueger

to Morgan Hall, in a space next to mass media’s temporary lab space. Grimmer described the environment within KTWU as welcoming and close-knit. Faculty have adjusted to new class locations and meeting spaces while building relationships with KTWU staff along the way. “I love the KTWU people,” Grimmer said. “We have had a good time working with them and getting to know them.” As the move eventually comes to an end, Finch and Grimmer said they will miss the daily interaction with KTWU staff. “Everybody’s great, really supportive and friendly,” Finch said. “It’s been a definite plus, building new friendships across the hall.” Grimmer noted that moving equipment from Henderson to Kuehne was a challenge, along with the tight timing after finals week. “We had to wait until finals were over, then move quickly,” she said. “As soon as finals week ended, they closed the building.” With the school year ending, mass media faculty and KTWU prepare for one final fall semester together. Even in a temporary space, the experience has created lasting connections. 21

‘EYES OPEN’ WITH MATTHEW NYQUIST

From a forgotten podcast to a film in progress, Matthew Nyquist says, “it’s been surreal” as “Eyes Open” turns years of storytelling into something bigger. by Melina Scherer Matthew Nyquist, filmmaker and associate mass media professor, doesn’t just teach storytelling; he’s living it. Between classes and late nights working on “Eyes Open,” a film he is creating, Nyquist has spent the past year balancing teaching, filmmaking and a creative revival he didn’t see coming. What began as a passion project between Nyquist and his wife, Tara, has grown into a full-scale production and sparked even more projects along the way. “It’s been a little surreal,” Nyquist said. “We’ve made a lot of progress, even if it hasn’t been as fast as I originally planned.” “Eyes Open” is rooted in the couple’s real-life experiences, following a deeply personal story shaped by their relationship.” Tara Nyquist has been involved in every stage of the process, and they’ve built a collaborative team focused on authentic storytelling. That authenticity is already getting attention. After submitting the script for professional feedback, the project ranked in the top 7% of all submissions, placing it close to some of the highest-rated screenplays. “That was a big moment for us,” Nyquist said. “It showed us we’re on the right track.” While the film continues moving through preproduction, another unexpected opportunity came from revisiting Nyquist’s past. Years before streaming platforms and social media, he created a video game podcast called “The Game Show” on BreakmanX.com that quietly built a large following, pulling in nearly a million views in one month. “I hadn’t thought about it in years,” Nyquist said. “But looking back, it was a huge part of how I got into this industry.” Now, that same podcast has been revived, bringing together original collaborators and new voices. The project has also inspired a documentary currently in production, exploring its early impact and influence. 22

Back in the classroom, Nyquist is using those experiences to help students navigate a rapidly changing media landscape. After returning from sabbatical, he has focused on incorporating industry trends, especially the growing role of artificial intelligence in creative work. “It’s not about letting AI do everything,” Nyquist said. “It’s about using it as a tool to enhance what you’re already creating.” For Nyquist, the biggest lesson from the past year is simple. “Do things,” Nyquist said. “There’s never been a better time to put your work out there.” As “Eyes Open” continues toward production, Nyquist hopes audiences will connect with its message, which is shaped by years of experience, reflection and growth. “It’s been stressful, but ultimately really rewarding,” Nyquist said.

Associate Professor and filmmaker Matthew Nyquist and his crew are working on the “Eyes Open” set. Photo courtesy of Matthew Nyquist

KRISTEN GRIMMER BUILDING THE FUTURE by Jaema Bordelon As the 2025-26 school year kicked off, Kristen Grimmer, associate professor and chair of mass media, found herself taking on more responsibilities than ever before. One of the biggest changes for the mass media faculty was being relocated to spaces across campus. Despite the limited space and unfamiliar environment, Grimmer said the move went much better than she could have imagined, thanks to the hospitality of the KTWU employees. “I feel like now there’s no barrier between us and them,” Grimmer said. “It’s really changed our working relationship. I can’t really say enough good things about them. We’re not just colleagues, but we’re friends.” The mass media labs and classrooms also had to be relocated while Henderson began its transformation into Advisors Excel Hall. Moving the labs to temporary homes proved to be difficult. Grimmer spent part of her 2025 summer dealing with incomplete wiring, leaky ceilings and tight deadlines to ensure everything was ready for students returning to campus. “I was becoming a project manager of those spaces, chasing everybody down, being like ‘this happened, this happened,’” Grimmer said. With Regina Cassell, director of Student Media, on sabbatical for the fall 2025 semester, Grimmer added even more to her plate. She was both the chair for the department and the acting director of Student Media, two administrative heavy positions, on top of her teaching duties. Although she felt stretched thin, Grimmer was delighted by the opportunity to better understand the structure of Student Media and connect with students on a deeper level. Grimmer brought the conversation around Student Media to higher levels by advocating for the organization to Faculty Senate. She explained Student Media’s importance and why it should not be minimized or overlooked. “People should not think that it doesn’t matter because it is a form of student expression on campus. It is also a check and balance for student government,” Grimmer said.

Kristen Grimmer took on more unique responsibilities this year, but she is excited about all the progress she made for the department. As Advisor’s Excel Hall is set to be completed in January 2027, the department is looking forward to settling into the new space and Grimmer is focused on making sure that the mass media programs remain competitive. “We’re going to have a lot more editing bays,” Grimmer said. “We’ll have a podcast room. We’re talking about creating a mix room for people wanting to either do video sound production or audio production for podcasts. We’re going to work on funding that. That’s going to be my next fundraising goal with some of the grant writing I do.” As the school year wraps up, Grimmer said she is grateful for mass media and all it encompasses. She sees the faculty and students as more of a family than just simply a department. She said she believes the alumni are an important part of that family. “Even when you’re not a student anymore, you’re still one of us,” Grimmer said. “You can always come back to campus and visit us anytime. You don’t have to be a stranger.”

MARIA STOVER

BALANCING ADMINISTRATION AND TEACHING Maria Stover , associate dean and mass media professor brings innovation, global perspective and a commitment to curiosity to shape student experiences on campus. by Genoveva Byuylekova Maria Stover, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and mass media professor, balances both roles while shaping student experiences and academic innovation at the university. The new Advisor Excel Hall will be ready for students during spring 2027, offering upgraded labs, larger learning spaces and access to advanced technology. These improvements are especially important for mass media students, whose work depends heavily on equipment and software. “Without access to technology, you’re limited,” Stover said. “These resources enable students to create and fully develop their skills.” Stover’s role as associate dean requires balancing administrative responsibilities with teaching. “I wear a lot of hats, but I manage my time by focusing on each role separately and working closely with others,” Stover said. Despite administrative duties, working directly with students remains one of the most rewarding aspects of the job for Stover. She prioritizes one-on-one meetings, particularly with graduating seniors preparing for careers or further education. “Think of fuel and what keeps me going is seeing students grow, graduate and succeed,” Stover said.

“I wear a lot of hats, but I manage my time by focusing on each role separately and working closely with others,” Stover said. 24

Maria Stover has been a part of the mass media department since 2003. She continues to help students succeed in her current role. photo courtesy of Maria Stover

The most meaningful part for Stover is the connection with her students that extends beyond graduation. Her students stay in touch with her by seeking advice or returning as guest speakers. “I love to see them walk the stage and graduate, but then, usually through LinkedIn, we stay connected,” Stover said. “Sometimes they reach out, even 10 years later.” Looking ahead, Stover hopes that students will take full advantage of the opportunities they have nowadays. Above all, she encourages a learning mindset that extends beyond graduation. “Stay curious,” Stover said. “Never stop learning, exploring, asking questions and growing.”

RETURNING FROM SABBATICAL

REGINA CASSELL

by Gaviena Frank

In July 2000, Regina Cassell first stepped foot onto Washburn University’s campus as a publication specialist for the Washburn Alumni Association. Today, she is the director of Student Media and a senior lecturer in the mass media department. Cassell is always busy, whether at work or at home and “typical” days are nonexistent. She works with different people throughout her week, teaching classes, advising students, and juggling Student Media responsibilities. Cassell describes herself as a free spirit, saying she’s known for not being the most organized, but she does do her best. “Sometimes the more I try to be organized, the less organized I actually am,” Cassell said. Cassell’s colleague and close friend, Maria Stover, who is the associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of mass media, can attest to her free‑spirited nature. “She’s always the heart of a conversation, always able to make you laugh,” Stover said. According to Stover, Cassell is a great mentor for her students and goes above and beyond to see them

“She’s always the heart of a conversation, always able to make you laugh.” succeed. “If you really add it up, we’re talking hundreds of students that I think she has impacted in meaningful and lasting ways,” Stover said. Work life isn’t the only thing that keeps Cassell on her toes. Her home life is just as active. Cassell is family‑oriented, the oldest of four daughters in her family, married with two sons, and has a family dog named Zelda. Cassell also enjoys the book club she is a member of, going to church, and spending time with her family. Cassell and her husband Gene Cassell, the assistant athletic director for athletic communications and a mass media adjunct, will spend time grading together during the evenings. Her youngest son, Jared Cassell, said he enjoys spending time with his mom and appreciates the help she gives him with schoolwork. They often work on his assignments together. “My mom and I are pretty close; she usually goes over my assignments with me after I finish them,” Jared Cassell said. Cassell has no plans to slow down anytime soon despite her 22 years of teaching. She said she spent her time on sabbatical learning how to use AI tools so she can teach students how to use them in her Professional Media Applications classes while also chatting with alumni about their use of AI within their careers.

Regina Cassell brings her humor, heart, and hands‑on mentorship to Washburn’s student media while managing an equally busy life at home. Christmas 2025 with Jake, Jared, Regina and Gene Cassell. photo courtesy of Regina Cassell

SAM FINCH PREPARING TO WRITE by Amirah Gibbs & Tristan Scott Lecturer Sam Finch cannot help but bring a global perspective to his work. Born and raised in Michigan, Sam met his wife, Katie, who is from England, when they were both teaching English in Daegu, South Korea. Finch said he taught for two years at an English academy and then from 2007-16, he taught at two different universities. While living in South Korea, Finch also traveled to Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, and China. Finch said be believes teaching mass media courses is becoming increasingly important, as students are becoming more reliant on social media, film and emerging technologies. “The media is all around us, from the moment we wake up to the moment we go to bed,” Finch said. “We’re constantly exposed to messages and a large part of what we talk about is how those messages impact us.” Finch plans to work on writing a feature-length script during his time away from the classroom. “The big part of going into a feature, is settling on an idea, honing that idea, making sure that it’s something that can sustain that length of the project,” Finch said. Kristen Grimmer, associate professor in mass media and the chair of the department, has worked closely with Finch since he was hired. She encouraged him to apply for the sabbatical, as a way for Finch to work on his passion project. “Sam works really hard every day, and many times that means not getting to work on your craft because you’re just so busy teaching,” Grimmer said. “When it came time for him to take a sabbatical, I told him it was his turn to actually work on that passion project he’s had to put on the back burner for a while.” On his sabbatical, Finch also plans to develop a new class for the sport and event media major coming to Washburn in the fall. The class aims to teach students the basics of video production within the sports field. “It’s essentially combining the content that I teach in video production with a sports media focus,” Finch said. Alongside all this, Finch is dedicated to his role as 26

Lecturer Sam Finch prepares for his Fall 2026 sabbatical. He plans to work on writing a feature-length film script. photo courtesy of Sam Finch

a dad, and maybe it’s the toughest job of all, chasing around his 3-year-old twins, Ronin and Oakley. The twins are always a top priority for Finch, who loves sharing photos and videos with colleagues. “My wife, Katie, starts working at 8 o’clock, and so it’s on me to get the kids fed, clothed, take them to daycare, and get to campus to teach,” Finch said, “At 6 p.m. I get home, the kids are tired and sometimes screaming, but we have to feed them, bathe them, and then get them to bed.” “I’m really excited for my sabbatical, which will give me time to recharge and focus on professional development,” Finch said. “It’ll be nice to step away from the day-to-day routine of teaching for a bit and really immerse myself in writing.”

CREATING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM WITH by Tristan Scott

DEAN KRUEGER

Tucked away in his cozy office in the back of the KTWU building, Dean Krueger, lecturer, has found joy this year in growing his teaching career while also making time for his own creative endeavors. After joining the department in 2024, Krueger has been taking on more classes, stretching his reach to theatre students as well as those already majoring in mass media. “This semester I’m teaching a sound production class, and it’s went really well,” Krueger said. “Having it cross-listed with theatre has been especially rewarding because the students bring a lot of enthusiasm and a really interesting mix of creative and technical perspectives.” Krueger has also been using his experience in sound production to help Andy Farkas, associate professor of creative writing and fiction and English, record his book, “Movies Are Fine for a Bright Boy Like You.” “We set up recording sessions on weekends, and I take on more of a producer role, guiding the performance and then piecing everything together in post-production,” Krueger said. Continuing to pursue his creative side, Krueger has been collaborating with Liberty Hall, an indie film theater in Lawrence, Kansas. He took commissions to create illustrations for films to sell on opening night at the theater “It was really satisfying to see people holding the artwork I made, especially after putting so much time and energy into it,” Krueger said. “There’s something special about watching people immediately connect with your work.” Rest is also in the plans for Kruger, as he feels it’s important to know your limits and to give yourself space between big projects. “I definitely wore myself out a bit with those projects, so right now I’m focusing on recharging before starting another big art project this summer,” Krueger said. He is also looking forward to several upcoming film releases, most notably, “The Odyssey” directed by Christoper Nolan. Greek mythology is a topic Krueger has always been inspired by, so he’s already

digging deeper into the subject. “This summer, I’ll probably be working with friends on some Greek myth-inspired comics, which is a fun creative direction for me,” Krueger said. On a professional level, Krueger is reflecting on his teaching style and thinking through new ways to create effective lectures that engage students. “At Washburn, I’ll be teaching multiple sections of mass media 100 next semester, and I’m excited to keep improving that class,” Krueger said. “I’ve noticed the lectures are more engaging when I incorporate videos and multimedia, so I want to expand that and make the course more interactive.”

Lecturer Dean Krueger poses alongside senior Kendall Brungardt and the KC Wolf at the 2026 Kansas Association of Broadcasters Sport Media College Day. photo courtesy of Dean Krueger

RESHAPING THE MARKETING INDUSTRY FOR WOMEN by Deja Vanderbilt

lexis Chicalas, ‘21, walked into a coffee shop with an idea and walked out 30 minutes later with a name, a logo and a company. The harder part, she’d learn, was everything that came after. But her desire to reshape the marketing industry for women didn’t start in a coffee shop. Chicalas’ experience in media started at Newman University, before she decided to transfer to Washburn University in 2018. “I felt like I really found a community at Washburn,” Chicalas said. Earning a minor in theater helped her break out of her comfort zone and ignited her passion for storytelling. Maria Stover, associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of mass media, said she saw an entrepreneurial drive in Chicalas during her time at Washburn. “Alexis was always interested in brand storytelling,” Stover said. After graduation and in search of new opportunities, Chicalas moved to California with her husband to be closer to her sister. It was in California that she became pregnant with their first child. However, due to the cost of living, Chicalas said she and her husband moved back to Kansas City to be closer to family before the birth of their son. Chicalas then accepted a position at a small, male-led marketing agency. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chicalas said she was overwhelmed by the workload as coworkers called out sick, resulting in her handling design and communicating with clients. “There were two weeks where everyone had COVID, and I was like running this agency,” Chicalas said, “I was doing all the design work and talking with clients. I was stressed, don’t get me wrong, but I was like, ‘This is so fun.’” Chicalas’ time at the agency was short-lived. Despite the effort she had poured into her work, the owner made clear that her responsibilities as a mother were not their concern, prompting her to leave the agency for good.

photo courtesy of Alexis Chicalas

Chicalas then transitioned into freelancing, spending two years doing graphic design, website development and social media marketing. Frustrated by her clients’ limited creative vision and motivated by the experience she had gained at her previous job, the idea of starting something of her own began to take shape. After a year of reflection, determined to make her vision come to life, Chicalas sat down at a coffee shop, and Nude Digital Marketing was born. For Chicalas, “nude” reflects her brand’s core values of keeping things raw, natural and authentic. But her vision for her brand expands beyond the name, as she emphasized her belief in uplifting women and mothers in business. “I’m just so passionate about giving women the space to be who we are. Women are great leaders,” Chicalas said. “I would not be where I’m at today if not for the women helping me build and invest in my business.” Launched in January 2024, Chicalas said she established Nude Digital Marketing to provide opportunities for women in a male-dominated industry, desiring to foster an environment built on trust, freedom and support. Chicalas strives to market her agency in the same way that a big fashion or lifestyle brand would, helping it stand out in a saturated market. The agency’s branding reflects Chicalas’ interests, including fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands. Her marketing strategy helps clients build strategies that align with their identity and avoid chasing trends that don’t fit the business. Chicalas does this by taking time to understand a client’s goals, values and vision rather than focusing solely on profit and providing a foundational strategy for implementation. “I want my clients to succeed in every way,” Chicalas said. Chicalas said she drew inspiration from a number of women in her entrepreneurial journey, including women business owners in Kansas City. One of these women is Chanel Jezek, the founder of Dear Society Co., who has implemented a similar strategy of using authentic marketing for her clothing business since 2015. One of the biggest initial challenges Chicalas said she’s faced since Nude Digital Marketing’s launch was saying yes to every opportunity. “There were a few clients who did not have the same heart that I did. I kind of got screwed over in really big ways,” Chicalas said. “But what I did was take it as ‘everything is a learning opportunity.’ I now know

how to transition and build a firmer foundation.” After temporarily taking a step back for a year to reevaluate her goals, Chicalas relaunched her agency after spending time building a better foundation for her agency and setting firmer boundaries.

“I’m just so passionate about giving women the space to be who we are.” “It was the best decision of my entire life,” Chicalas said. Some of her favorite projects since relaunching include creative direction and production for a Black women-owned beauty brand called Pink Lipps Cosmetics, as well as several unlaunched creative projects with other brands founded in the KC area, including Dear Society and LINK X LOU, a one-of-akind jewelry brand. Chicalas has big visions for Nude Digital Marketing, including developing into a strong, recognizable brand, forming a tight-knit team of creative women, establishing a collaborative space in downtown Kansas City, and working with larger brands in the fashion, beauty and lifestyle industries. “I also just want to create opportunities for women entrepreneurs to connect,” Chicalas said, teasing the launch of a potential sister brand to Nude Digital Marketing, a women’s networking and mentorship initiative. Regina Cassell, senior lecturer and director of Student Media, said Washburn does an excellent job equipping women like Chicalas with the tools they need to succeed professionally and as entrepreneurs. “It does not surprise me one bit that Alexis is representing Washburn very well,” Cassell said. “She’s doing great work, and that is so exciting to hear.” Chicalas is continuing to reshape the marketing industry in the Midwest and beyond with her creative strategies and initiative in paving the way for women in business. “Entrepreneurship is scary. It’s very scary. But I think the feeling of building something you’re extremely passionate about overrides the scariness,” Chicalas said.

BREAKING THROUGH THE SURFACE by Taylor Rottinghaus To fans, college athletes may seem confident, motivated and unshakable, but behind the scenes, mental health challenges can be a daily reality. Athletes may feel pressure to appear strong, even when they are struggling. Shayla Connor, ’20, associate head volleyball coach at Washburn and a former volleyball player, experienced firsthand that balancing sports, academics, and life was more difficult than she expected. It took her a semester to figure out how to prioritize learning and put education first while still giving herself space to grow as an athlete and teammate. The pressure sometimes affected her on-court 30

performance. Something as simple as serving became a mental battle. “I got so in my head, and it was a confidence thing,” Connor said. “When I learned to play for my teammates instead, I became a pretty good server. It took a lot of struggles to get to the other side.” For Nate Lorenzen, ’20, a former baseball player, long seasons and team dynamics added their own stress to his everyday life. Managing mental health both on and off the field became a daily struggle. “Even when slumps are bad, or you feel like you’re playing poorly, there are people around you going through the same thing, and it’s fine to lean on them,” Lorenzen said.

Support systems are crucial for athletes navigating the pressure of college sports. Connor credits her parents and assistant coaches for helping her regain confidence during difficult moments. “They poured a ton of confidence into me and helped me pull myself out of it,” Connor said. The culture around mental health in athletics has gradually evolved. Both Connor and Lorenzen noted a time when talking about mental struggles was often viewed as a sign of weakness. Today, Connor sees that athletes and coaches both seem more willing to have those conversations. Lorenzen believes the shift has been influenced by professional athletes speaking openly about their own mental health challenges, as well as the rise of online resources and conversations that normalize seeking help. Still, the demanding schedule of college athletics can make it difficult for athletes to maintain balance. Practices, games, travel, and classes leave little time to rest, and the expectation to perform consistently can weigh heavily on student-athletes. Both alumni offered advice to those currently navigating the pressures of college sports. Lorenzen encouraged athletes to talk openly about their struggles and rely on the support systems around them. Connor said she can’t emphasize enough the importance of perspective and focusing on being a good teammate rather than striving for perfection. Connor believes another potential way to support student-athletes would be for universities to consider having a dedicated sports psychologist. Someone who specializes in the mental side of athletics could help athletes manage the unique pressures that come with competition and performance expectations. From an administrative perspective, Gene Cassell, assistant athletic director of communications at Washburn, also recognizes the role mental health plays in both performance and overall well-being. Cassell said that he thinks mental health is closely connected to the physical side of athletics and should be considered part of an athlete’s overall health. “Mental health is part of the whole picture,” Cassell said. “Just like nutrition, sleep, and physical health,

your mental well-being affects how you perform and how you live your life.” Cassell said universities often evaluate ways to strengthen support systems for student-athletes. While some athletic departments employ sports psychologists within their programs, implementing those positions can depend on available resources.

“A lot of athletes have been told their whole lives to fight through things, but sometimes there are things in life you just can’t fight through.” Washburn student-athletes do have access to mental health resources through campus counseling services, which are available to all students. However, one of the biggest challenges can be whether athletes feel comfortable seeking help, and the nuances that surround therapy. Stigma, combined with pressure to perform, can make it difficult for athletes to reach out for support. As conversations around mental health continue to grow, many believe the culture of athletics is gradually shifting. For Connor and Lorenzen, that progress is important. They hope future student-athletes will continue to feel more comfortable discussing mental health and seeking support when needed. While sports fans often focus on the scoreboard, the experiences of student-athletes show there is much more happening behind the scenes. Managing and maintaining the mental side of the game is just as important as developing physical skills.

FROM AGENCIES T Bringing Real-World Digital Strategy to the Classroom

by Lexi Hittle As the media world continues to evolve, students find that the classroom is changing with it. Taryn Reed, ’19, a digital media strategist at Kazoo Media, joined the mass media department in fall of 2025 as an adjunct professor and specializes in paid social. Growing up, Reed would watch the Super Bowl every year with her family. When she was about 12 years old, she began paying attention to the elaborate commercials throughout the game.

“Finding that those commercials were just as exciting for me was interesting,” Reed said. As she grew up, she made the connection and realized that she was passionate about advertising. Over the past few years, Reed has worked for several agencies and works with digital media, specifically social media, every day. While traditional media is still used, digital forms of advertising are more common. As a result, mass media students constantly need to broaden their knowledge of digital media to keep up with the industry. “It’s one of those industries where I will never be bored of the innovations and trends we get to explore,” Reed said. Reed also said social media is important for every media student and professional, regardless of concentration. It allows journalists to share news, and helps film and video students get their work out into the world. Advertising and public relations students use social media for advertisements and building communities. Textbooks give students a foundation of the media world; however, this industry changes quickly. There are new programs, platforms and techniques that students will be expected to understand and use. This includes new technology and software such as artificial intelligence. “It changes every day,” Reed said. “No one is an expert in social at this point.” Maria Stover, an associate dean for the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of mass media, has known Reed for nine years. They met when Reed was a student and have remained in contact since she graduated. It was Stover who recommended that Reed become an adjunct professor for mass media. “Just because somebody is a good practitioner, you know, good

TO ACADEMICS at their job, that does not always translate smoothly into knowing how to explain things,” Stover said. “I think having an adjunct of this caliber, with the knowledge, but also the ability to teach well, to care for students, to connect with students, that is so valuable.” Right now, few mass media classes focus on social media. In fall 2025, Reed taught digital marketing and advertising trends, a class that brought social media to the forefront and provided more hands-on activities. “Each of those subjects could be turned into their own class in some way, shape, or form,” Reed said. “It changes on a monthly basis, and so there’s always going to be more of those digital things that we can keep adding to our curriculum.” For the past six years, Reed has worked primarily in paid social, a marketing strategy that allows businesses to boost content on social media platforms. She works with analytics, keeps up with trends, meets with clients, and ultimately has learned the back end of social media. Adjuncts can offer different insights to the media world that typical professors cannot. Adjuncts work in the industry every day and have hands-on experience with the most recent trends, programs, and platforms. “Adjuncts offer a unique perspective, especially in an industry like this, as it is ever-changing,” Reed said. “It’s a similar concept to continued education.” Reed plans to continue teaching as an adjunct professor. Her teaching style includes short lectures followed by in-class activities that provide students with the opportunity to get hands-on experience and knowledge. “What she contributes already is extremely valuable and beneficial and has had an impact,” Stover said. Brighton Bivens, a senior advertising and public relations major, took Reed’s class in the fall and was part of MM403 this spring. Bivens plans to work in campaign strategy in the future and loves what Reed does as a professor. “Digital Marketing and Advertising Trends was actually my favorite mass media class I’ve taken in the last couple of years, just because it was more handson,” Bivens said. “Her teaching style works really well

for me. I think that when we have lectures, they’re short and they’re hands-on, and then they are usually followed by big group discussion or group activities in class; she’s giving us exactly what we need, and she’s allowing us to apply that.” As a media professional, Reed has many contacts in the media industry. This can be helpful for students who are looking for internships, future jobs, or want to network with media professionals. “I think that social media will be a big part of my future,” Bivens said. “It’s becoming the way that businesses promote themselves, and if you’re not learning the basics of social media and how it works, then there’s no way for you to be successful going into the job market when you graduate or even prior to graduation.”

A look back at the 2019 Mass Media Banquet with Taryn Reed, Maria Stover, and Reilly Peuser. The evening highlighted a year of growth and community within the communications department. photos courtesy of Taryn Reed

ALUMNA REDISCOVERS PASSION FOR MEDIA by Deja Vanderbilt Trading coffee for copywriting, Grace (Cole) Walker, ‘20, is starting a new chapter in her journey within the media field after a four-year hiatus. Walker began her media career at Washburn University, working as a marketing assistant at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center alongside her friend, Emma Wittmer, ‘21. Cole also worked as a social media manager for Porterfield’s flower shop. Wittmer said she enjoyed working with Walker on projects in and out of the classroom. “Grace had a really great visual eye when it came to creating, and that was something I got to glean from her,” Wittmer said. After graduation, Walker accepted a hybrid position at a Topeka non-profit as an advertising and social media manager. Although the workplace environment was mostly positive, Walker said she struggled to collaborate with leadership and members of her team, making her experience less fulfilling than she had anticipated. “I was given freedom to create, but not necessarily to create content that I thought was going to be the most effective,” Walker said. Walker left the role after less than one year, as it drained her creative ability. “When I took that job, I thought I would probably continue in the media field, so I had no intention of leaving,” Walker said. “But dreams change, and plans change.” Kristen Grimmer, chair of mass media and associate professor, said it’s common for students to take time to find their footing after college. “Very few of us know really early on exactly what we want to do and there are so many available options,” Grimmer said. Grimmer also said that it’s important to take time to discover what you are passionate about and how to apply the skills you gain in college. During her time away from the media field, Walker realized she wanted to work in a place that valued quality over quantity, leading her to accept a position as a barista at Circle Coffee Co. Walker said the job showed her the importance of hospitality–not just at work, but in every interaction. After working at Circle for a year and a half, Walker 34

photo courtesy of Deja Vanderbilt returned to the media field on her own terms in January 2026. Walker now works for her aunt, Andrea Engstrom, at her business-coaching company, Bold Masterminds, as a project manager and copywriter. Walker said she is learning to speak up and advocate for herself and her needs. She also said that she is navigating what meaningful connection looks like in a remote media role. “Whether you’re working in a corporate office or for a small business, you have a choice about how you’re going to care for people,” Walker said. “We don’t have an excuse to be lazy about respecting people.”

FULL ‘CIRCLE’ IN TOPEKA by Amirah Gibbs Today it’s hard to find someone who grew up, studied and succeeded all from the same area. Matthew Kelly, ‘13, regional manager for manufacturing and supply chain communications at Goodyear, checks all these boxes. For Kelly, working at Goodyear is more than just a job, it’s a connection to his family. “My dad was a machinist for 50 years,” Kelly said. Today, he often sees machinery parts from the Topeka Foundry and Iron, the same place his dad worked. “I feel like I’m cut from the same cloth as the associates here,” Kelly said. “I’ve benefited from teachers, mentors and employers in this community who opened doors for me,” Kelly said. “Now I’m in the position to do the same for others.” Kelly has used his education to build a connection between chain management and communication. At Washburn, he served as the editor-in-chief for the Kaw yearbook and worked for the Washburn Review, where he learned how to clarify topics and meet deadlines. Kelly said these skills are very important when talking to workers in a big factory. “It’s a valuable skill to know how to take complexity and make it simple for the people that you work with,” Kelly said. No matter if he’s talking to a few people or a huge crowd, what Kelly learned at Washburn helps him stay calm and make sure everyone feels like their voice matters. Kelly said he believes in giving back to his hometown. After starting the next chapter of his career at Goodyear, he also chose to lead the Topeka advisory board for Junior Achievement of Kansas. In this position, he helps teach Topeka students

how to handle money and get ready for their futures. “I believe every kid deserves a fair shot at understanding how the world works,” Kelly said. For him, it is about completing the circle. He benefited from mentors in Topeka, and now he is making sure local kids have the same chances to succeed that he had. Kelly said that by using what he learned in mass media to lead at Goodyear, he’s doing more than just a job, he’s helping the whole city. Through his work with Junior Achievement, he teaches kids the same lessons he learned, so he can help others grow.

Goodyear Regional Manager Matthew Kelly uses his mass media background and family roots in Topeka to lead and mentor local students. photo courtesy of Matthew Kelly

ALUMNA RETURNS TO RECRUIT ICHABODS by Lexi Dean Alex Younger, ‘24 didn’t take a straight path from student to recruiter, but she’s excited to return to the Washburn community that feels like home. She now helps students navigate the same halls where she built her skills and connected with university mentors. “There is comfort in returning to somewhere familiar,” Younger said. “I know the people, I know the school, and I like the sense of community.” Younger also said that her professors truly shaped her journey. Chair and Associate Professor Kristen

Grimmer helped connect her with an internship at Evergy Plaza. “Alex was always very dependable and a very committed student,” Grimmer said. Regina Cassell, senior lecturer in mass media, pushed Younger’s writing while she worked on the Mass Media Messenger magazine. “Even though it was extremely difficult, Regina made me a much stronger writer,” Younger said. So far, her career path has taken her through a variety of roles, corporate events, and social media jobs, but corporate life never felt like the right fit. When the recruiter position opened at Washburn, Younger quickly applied and was given a role aligning with her personality and former work experience. Younger says her life in the office is different each day. Seasonal traveling, admission meetings, scholarship questions, and unexpected walk-ins require Younger to maintain a diverse range of knowledge of Washburn’s resources and services.

FROM WASHBURN TO HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT by Lexi Dean Anneleise McEvoy, ‘19, is based in Dallas, Texas, where she works in hospitality marketing as a social media manager overseeing strategy for hotels, resorts and restaurants across the U.S. McEvoy manages a wide range of responsibilities that blend creative direction with day-to-day execution. She develops monthly content calendars, writes and schedules social media, and coordinates influencer partnerships that match each hotel’s brand identity. On the analytical side, she tracks performance and adjusts strategy. A major focus of her work is turning digital interactions into realworld hospitality moments. McEvoy works closely with hotel teams to highlight guest experiences such as birthdays, anniversaries and special stays, helping translate those moments into personalized touches that extend beyond social media. “Being genuinely passionate about your job shows in your work, and people respond to that,” McEvoy said. 36

Chair and Associate Professor Kristen Grimmer, described McEvoy as highly organized and reliable, noting that those strengths now show up in her ability to manage multiple brands and fast-moving deadlines in a competitive industry. “I think Anneleise made the most of every semester, working to find opportunities to build her skill set,” Grimmer said. In a field shaped by shifting algorithms, influencer expectations and the increasing use of AI tools, McEvoy continues to adapt while keeping her focus on connection. Her work centers on creating content that feels grounded in real experiences and engagement.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES by Gaviena Frank Jessica Herrera, ’14, was promoted in December of 2025 to her current position as the associate director of policy and communications at Kansas Action for Children, where she has worked for the past four years. Alicia Phillips, ’08, is now chief marketing officer at Mendocino Farms, and sits on the board of directors at Swenson’s Drive In. She is married Christopher Mowder. They have two daughters, Ellie, 9, and Addison, 4. Delainey Williams, ’21, started her current position as marketing manager at Midwest Health in September 2025. Katelyn Tryon, ’23, has been the operations coordinator at Triad Partners about a year and a half. Nigel Burgess, ’21, started his position as senior manager of growth marketing at Alias Intelligence, where he will build the marketing team from scratch. He was previously at Magellan Financial for two years. He will marry Amanda XXX in September 2026. The couple has two children, Brooklyn, 4, and Brinley, 2. Ronnie Murphy, ’04, is the digital evidence specialist at Advisors Excel, where he has worked for about six months. Michelle Dell, ’97, has been the director of community engagement at the YWCA Northeast Kansas for the last year. Rob Welcher, ’11, is the digital evidence specialist at the Oklahoma City Police Department and has been for two years. He is now a father, who will be one in September. Michael Lee Johnson, ’78, is a remote content strategist/writer at Behlen Manufacturing Co. and just completed his 47th year in the communications marketplace, which includes working with ad agencies, university marketing departments and corporate marketing communications environments.

Rachel (Harden) Whitten, ’10, is the vice president of marketing at National Taxpayers Union, where she has been working for the past year and a half. Curtis Kitchen, ’02, has been working at Society for Simulation in Healthcare as their director of marketing for the last seven and a half years. The company he works has earned given multiple awards for their marketing team’s work. Travis James Perry, ’09, is the director of marketing and communications at the Washburn University School of Law. He has been working at Washburn University for the past 11 years but was recently hired for his current position in April. Hunter Wise, ’24, is the communications coordinator at the Kansas Attorney General’s Office and has been working there for six months. Erin Younkin, ’03, is the chief communications officer at Goodwill Industries of Kansas. She has been there for a year and a half. She and her husband, Benjamin Redington, have three daughters and two sons. Rajendra Bista, ’23, is the creative director for Tank Production LLC, which he is also the founder of. He describes his company as a cinematic video production and content strategy company that works with businesses and personal brands. James Edward Bernard, ’86, is a traveling retail sales trainer for Goodyear after managing there for 36 years; they created this position just for him. He is married to Cheri Lyn Underwood, and they have two adult sons, Dylan and Jake Bernard. Jeremy Mickel Ford, ’25, is currently a youth minister for Teens for Christ Connection and a substitute teacher for the Kansas Department of Education. Ernie W. Webb III, ’98, is the director of strategic marketing and communications at Washburn University. He has been here for 14 years and recently published his first book, titled “Goodbye, Butterfly: Murder, Faith and Forgiveness in a Small Kansas Town,” which has been a best seller in several different categories on Amazon for more than a year.

Jamie Hornbaker, ‘08, poses with her prized possession, her cardboard cutout of State Farm spokesperson Jake, in her newly expanded office space. photos courtesy of Jaime Hornbaker.

MORE THAN A JOB TITLE by Tristan Scott Many college students have left universities with a certain career path in mind, and then found themselves in a completely different role entirely. Jamie Hornbaker, ‘08, has found major success using her mass media skillset in a completely different environment. Hornbaker always had a love for writing, presenting and creating projects for most of her childhood. Whether at school or in her homelife, she always found opportunities to let her creative juices flow. “Anytime we would go to any family gatherings, I would end up being on the computer with my cousins making the ‘Miller Times’ for the Miller family,” Hornbaker said. “We would create these newsletters that we would write about who was there and what they did.” As Hornbaker got older, she ran into a bit of a rough patch. She dropped out of high school, and became a young mother. After getting her GED and taking some community college courses, Hornbaker set her sights on Washburn. “I remember when they were going around asking people what their majors were in one of my first classes, somebody said that she was studying journalism,” Hornbaker said. “I remember thinking I was jealous that I didn’t say that because I knew that’s what I wanted to do.” Hornbaker immediately took every opportunity presented to her, often taking the lead on group projects, finding chances to write stories for different newsletters and magazines, and even creating a PR club at Washburn, who regularly did the public relations for other clubs across campus. “I never had to worry about her not doing her work,” said Regina Cassell, senior lecturer. “If we graded on a curve, the class would want

Jaime Hornbaker finds success off the beaten path

to vote her out immediately because she’d be up there setting the curve.” Once Hornbaker graduated from Washburn, she found herself in typical marketing roles, however, she craved more for her career. “Never did I think I was gonna do insurance, but the more I looked into it, the more I could use a lot of the things that got me so excited about marketing,” Hornbaker said. Since opening her own State Farm agency, Hornbaker has found her place within the Topeka community. Hornbaker’s approach to marketing is community involvement. Because the insurance industry is so personal, Hornbaker has found ways to give back and be a supportive shoulder for her community. Hornbaker keeps finding ways to reinvent herself to achieve more and more of her lifelong passions. “I liked being a student; I liked learning every day, I liked deadlines,” Hornbaker said. “It feels good to know where I’m at today, but sometimes I still feel like I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up.”

Jamie Hornbaker, ‘08, waves to the crowd from the Washburn University Public Relations Society float at the Washburn Homecoming parade during one of her college years.

STAYING CONNECTED HOW MEDIA LINKS INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TO LIFE BACK HOME

by Genoveva Byuylekova Media serves as a vital connection between international students and their homes thousands of miles away. Rio Matsumoto is a mass media film and video student from Japan. He said the media helps him stay connected, even though his home country is very far away. “When I was 15, I hated English,” Matsumoto said. “But after a trip to the Philippines, I started liking the language and other cultures. That’s when I became interested in studying abroad.” After transferring to Washburn from a college in Pennsylvania, Matsumoto said his experience has been more positive and eye-opening. Like many students, he primarily consumes news through social media. “I prefer social media,” Matsumoto said. “I don’t really search for news because it just comes up on YouTube or TikTok, and I click on it.” Still, staying informed about Japan remains important, especially during natural disasters. “I get notifications about earthquakes,” Matsumoto said. “When they’re close to my home, I worry.” Despite the distance, he said the media helps him feel closer to home. “We’re very far away from each other, but not really at the same time,” Matsumoto said. Saajida Razick came to Washburn from Sri Lanka to pursue her dream of playing college tennis. She said she still remembers her first night on campus like

“I prefer social media. I don’t really search for news because it just comes up on YouTube or TikTok, and I click on it.” 40

it was yesterday. “The very first time I came to the dorms, it was midnight, and it was just me in the room,” Razick said. “That’s when I truly realized that I was far away from home.” For Razick, media plays a critical role in her daily life, helping her stay informed about life in Sri Lanka. She said social media is her primary source of information. “My sister used to work for a media company that I follow closely,” Razick said. “But generally, it’s my mom sending Brenda Andrad e me links on WhatsApp. My Brazil Instagram feed also has a mix of Sri Lankan and American content.” As a student athlete, Razick also keeps up with sports news from home. “Recently, we just beat Australia in cricket,” Razick said. “We used to be really good, then we declined. Now I can see we’re coming back, and I like following that.” While social media helps some students stay connected to everyday life and sports, for others, media carries much greater weight. Anastasiia Cherednyk, from Odesa, Ukraine, relies on media to stay informed about her family’s safety during the ongoing war. For Cherednyk, staying informed is what is most important. She said she prefers Ukrainian news sources over American coverage. “There is a difference between Ukrainian news and American news,” Cherednyk said. “In Ukrainian news, you can read more details. It is more general here.”

photos courtesy of Brenda Andrade, Anastasiia Cherednyk, Saajida Razick and Rio Matsumoto

Anastasiia Cherednyk Ukraine

Rio Matsumoto Japan

Saa

jid Sri a Raz Lan ick ka

Cherednyk follows Telegram groups recommended by her mother and regularly checks updates about bombings and infrastructure damage. Her grandfather has told her the family often stays awake at night out of fear, and they avoid certain parts of the city due to safety concerns. “If it looks good and not destroyed, I’m happy to see it,” Cherednyk said. “But if it’s a place where I used to walk and now it’s gone, it’s hard.” Brenda Andrade, a Student Media employee from Brazil, said she relies more on personal connections than traditional news to stay informed about life back home. She first came to the United States for her final year of high school, living with a host family in

Burlington, Kansas, before enrolling at Washburn. “When I arrived at the airport in Atlanta, I knew no English,” Andrade said. “I only knew how to say my name and hello.” Now fluent, Andrade said that social media still plays a role, but she prefers hearing directly from people she knows. “I prefer to know what’s happening through people who are living it,” Andrade said. “I don’t want to sit and watch news all day.” Staying connected to home helps ease homesickness and allows students to maintain a sense of belonging, even from thousands of miles away. 41

MASS MEDIA STUDENT MAKES MAGIC by Deja Vanderbilt

rom the moment mass media student Deja Vanderbilt received an email from the Walt Disney Company with her acceptance into the Disney College Program, she knew her life was going to change. The Disney College Program is a multi-month program that allows college students to spend a semester working at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Participants take on roles across the resort while gaining experience in the company’s operations and guest services. “Knowing I was finally going to live out my dream of being a cast member at Walt Disney World was surreal,” Vanderbilt said. Although her acceptance arrived in February 2025, Vanderbilt did move to Florida until August. She said the next few months were an exciting yet nervous countdown. Five months after receiving her acceptance, Vanderbilt received an email describing her role. She would be working in food service at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments in Liberty Square, a land themed after the colonial era of America at Magic Kingdom. Vanderbilt said her initial reaction to the role was dread. “I’d heard lots of bad things about working in food service, especially at Magic Kingdom,” Vanderbilt said. “The idea of wearing a dress and bonnet every day sounded awful.” Still, Vanderbilt said she was determined to make the most of the opportunity. Through Facebook and Instagram, she connected with some women who would be working in the same position, which helped ease some of her nerves before arriving. When August finally arrived, Vanderbilt packed up her belongings and made the drive down to Orlando, Florida, with her dad, Andrew Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt said the first week of her program was filled with exploring the four Walt Disney World theme parks, meeting new friends, and attending a three-hour training seminar called Traditions. During the seminar, each participant in the program received their nametag and was officially welcomed as a cast member. 42

“The first couple of weeks were a blur,” Vanderbilt said, explaining that the reality of living away from home for the first time while adjusting to her new role was overwhelming. Vanderbilt said the shifts were long and cast members were expected to maintain a high standard of professionalism, efficiency and positivity that made many workdays exhausting. Despite the long shifts, moments with guests reminded Vanderbilt of why she had dreamed of becoming a cast member for so long. Working in Liberty Square allowed her to interact with families visiting the park for the first time, and she said she was able to help create magical moments.

“Knowing I was finally going to live out my dream of being a cast member at Walt Disney World was surreal.” One of Vanderbilt’s favorite parts of the job was interacting with kids and adults who were enthusiastic about Disney, as well as watching the firework shows and parades every day. It was through guest interactions that Vanderbilt said her language and communication skills dramatically improved with guests from across the world. Vanderbilt said her days off also became an opportunity for her to break out of her comfort zone and embrace new opportunities as she spent her time with friends riding attractions, enjoying the Disney parks’ diverse range of live performances, eating food and exploring the Orlando area. It was on one of her days off that Vanderbilt met Hannah Hillyer, who worked as a PhotoPass photographer at EPCOT. PhotoPass photographers create magic for guests by capturing special moments

for guests of all ages. Hillyer and Vanderbilt would regularly visit the Disney parks together and connected through a shared love for media and attending church. Both Vanderbilt and Hillyer agreed that the program expanded their professional skills and pushed them out of their comfort zones. “Disney turned me into much more of an extrovert,” Hillyer said. “Before PhotoPass, I would never just approach someone and be like ‘you want a photo?’ but that’s just part of the job.” As the program continued into October and Vanderbilt’s schedule settled into a routine, she said she became overwhelmed trying to balance her college coursework with long work shifts. Feelings of homesickness became more intense, but Vanderbilt said she was able to lean on friends for support, as they were struggling with the same challenges of independence and demanding jobs. Vanderbilt’s family also helped by visiting her in Florida. Her father flew down from Kansas to visit her several times, and her siblings flew down individually throughout the duration of her program. This gave them the chance to create special memories, explore the Disney parks and spend time together. Vanderbilt also credited regular FaceTime calls with her family and friends as a way she battled homesickness. Overall, Vanderbilt said that the experience taught her about conflict resolution and professional communication in a workplace, both of which will help her in her future media career. Vanderbilt’s exhaustion and lack of sleep began contributing to a combination of anxiety, depression and burnout near the end of her program. “[My life] became a grind,” Vanderbilt said. “I would go to bed every night around one or two in the morning and then wake up and just get ready for work. I was exhausted.” These struggles made it difficult to complete end-of-semester college deadlines and be enthusiastic about her job. It was through these challenges that Vanderbilt said she gained a strengthened sense of resilience. “I was determined to finish my program strong,” Vanderbilt said. The last several weeks of her program were filled with park photo courtesy of Deja Vanderbilt

days with friends, checking off her ‘DCP bucket list’ – such as visiting all four Disney parks in one day – and bittersweet goodbyes with coworkers and friends. When her program ended in January, Vanderbilt said she was ready to go home to a routine and excited for her semester ahead at Washburn. “The skills and experiences I gained on the Disney College Program will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

EXPLORING MASS photos by Sydney Connor

(above) Known for its rainy days, the city of London keeps moving. People weave through the city at a busy intersection. (left) Big Ben towers over Westminster Bridge. It’s one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. (right) A row of colorful townhouses lines the street of a London neighborhood. (bottom right) A historic building captures the city’s architecture.

S MEDIA ABROAD

From Topeka to Europe, one student explores how global media shapes storytelling.

by Taylor Rottinghaus Mass media student, Sydney Conner, chose to travel internationally to better understand how media functions across cultures and how those differences could shape her future career, while documenting her experience abroad through photography and film. Conner said studying abroad allowed her to see how storytelling and media credibility vary from country to country, expanding her understanding of global audiences and helping her think more about the work she hopes to create after graduation. “Overall, I wanted to gain experiences in other countries, so I’m able to reach wider audiences when I eventually get into the field of mass media,” Conner said. Throughout her travels, Conner has captured content in multiple locations, adapting her film editing style to reflect each setting. She credits skills developed in the mass media program for helping her approach projects with greater intention. “I try to match the atmosphere of wherever I am,” Connor said. “In Málaga, Spain, I’ll edit warmer because it’s sunnier. It just depends on the vibe of the place.” Conner said the experience has strengthened her skills and confidence as a creator. She has developed a greater appreciation for the editing process and improved her ability to color grade, viewing each project as part of a growing professional portfolio. Studying abroad has also changed how she views media culture. Conner observed stricter media regulations overseas compared to the United States. In other countries, information can be shared more freely online. “In London, everyone has a camera,” Conner said. “In Topeka, you don’t really see someone walking around with a DSLR camera.” Conner’s strength lies in her ability to tell visual stories, said Maria Stover, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor. “You can have a lot of students who are technically proficient, but being able to visually tell a story goes beyond technical skill, and without any doubt, Syd

has that,” Stover said. Lecturer Sam Finch also praised Conner and said she has always shown clear creative intention since her first class with him, consistently approaching projects with purpose and direction. He said her time abroad will permanently influence the stories she tells moving forward.

“Overall, I wanted to gain experiences in other countries, so I’m able to reach wider audiences when I eventually get into the field of mass media.” “Whatever she’s experiencing now will forever change her, and she’s now able to incorporate experiences that not everybody gets into the stories she tells,” Finch said. For Conner, the opportunity to travel and create content internationally is something she considers irreplaceable and a defining part of her development as a storyteller. For students considering studying abroad, Conner said: “Do it.”

Story and photos by Brighton Bivens I almost did not go. That might be the most important thing I can tell you. When I was offered the opportunity to attend the International Media Seminar in Paris, my first instinct was excitement, and then it was fear. Fear of navigating a city where I did not speak the language. Fear of sitting in a room with working media professionals from around the world and having nothing valuable to say. Fear of being, in every sense of the word, out of my depth. I tried to justify staying home in practical ways like cost, timing, and the comfort of familiarity. Underneath each excuse was the same truth. I was afraid of who I might be if I stepped into something I couldn’t fully control. I went anyway. The program, hosted by the American University of Paris, brought together students and media professionals from across the globe for a week of seminars, site visits, and discussions that were as rigorous as they were eye-opening. As a public relations and advertising student, I studied media in classrooms. Paris asked me to defend it in real time. I built my academic identity around confidence. Knowing the right answer, raising my hand, contributing something polished. Paris threatened all of that. It replaced certainty with questions, and answers with perspectives that I had never been able to personally understand. The conversations were not hypothetical. We examined the media landscape in countries including Uganda and Afghanistan, where journalists operate under conditions most Americans have never had to imagine. We explored organoid intelligence and its ethical implications. We visited the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization 46

headquarters and debated the responsibility that comes with communicating across borders. Sitting in those rooms, I realized that for many of the professionals speaking, these issues were not academic, they were lived realties. It forced me to reconsider the privilege of studying media in a space where freedom and expression are often assumed rather than fought for. There was no space to hide behind memorized terminology or rehearsed responses. Every discussion required presence and the willingness to admit when I did not know enough. Discomfort, I realized, was not a weakness, but rather an entry point into deeper understanding. The more I let go of the need to sound impressive, the more meaningful my contributions became. One of the most interesting lessons came from a conversation with AUP Professor Waddick Doyle on the day of our arrival. He explained how the relationship between media, government and culture in France operates on fundamentally different assumptions than in the United States. The difference held up a mirror to assumptions I had never thought to question. All moments following that one-hour conversation allowed me to view my experience through a different lens. I realized that my entire media education had been filtered through

The group pauses for a selfie on the Pont Alexandre III, one of Paris’s most ornate bridges, with the Eiffel Tower rising in the background. a single cultural framework, and I had mistaken that framework for universal truth. That realization was unsettling, yet exciting, and it meant there was more to learn than I had ever considered. I learned quickly that communication is more than words. A smile in a pâtisserie. A patient gesture from a shopkeeper in the Latin Quarter. The willingness to look foolish, pivot, and try again. I spent years learning to craft a message. Paris taught me that I had never truly learned to listen. It also taught me that silence can be its own form of communication, one that invites observation instead of control. In those quieter moments, I began to notice the rhythms of the city. The cadence of conversation, the unspoken rules of space, the subtle

ways people connect without ever sharing a language. The city itself was a curriculum. Standing in the gardens of the Louvre, I understood for the first time that culture is not something you read about. It is something you stand inside of, overwhelmed by the bustling locals getting to work and being humbled by their outfits. Walking through Notre Dame, still bearing the scars of its 2019 fire yet standing with quiet resilience while people attend mass, I thought about how we narrate tragedy. The Palace of Versailles raised questions about power. The Latin Quarter, full of students and musicians, raised questions about freedom. Even the metro rides became lessons in observation. Watching who speaks, who listens, who is seen, and who fades into the background with their headphones in. After our seminars were complete, I felt such a deep urge to make a difference for those less fortunate. I want to work across cultures, not just for them. I want to ask harder questions. I came home with a different idea of what I want my career to look like. Not just the mechanics of a good pitch or a campaign strategy, but the deeper question of whose stories get told, and how, and why. A career that is not only creative, but conscious. I want to remember what it felt like to be the person in the room who did not know the language, or the struggles of countries facing media censorship from their government and let that feeling make me a better communicator. More importantly, I want to keep choosing the opportunities that scare me because Paris showed me that growth rarely exists within the boundaries of comfort. Students enjoy a sunny afternoon boat cruise along the Seine River, taking in the iconic Parisian architecture and waterways. photo by Maria Stover

DEPARTMENT OF MASS MEDIA CONNECT WITH US

@massmediawu OFFICE COORDINATOR tracy.horacek@washburn.edu

Washburn University Department of Mass Media @wumassmedia

FACULTY

dean.krueger@washburn.edu kristen.grimmer@washburn.edu CONTACT US maria.stover@washburn.edu (785) 670-1836 • massmedia@washburn.edu matthew.nyquist@washburn.edu washburn.edu/massmedia regina.cassell@washburn.edu sam.finch@washburn.edu MM403 Spring 2026: from left: Brighton Bivens, Lexi Dean, Taylor Rottinghaus, Lexi Hittle, Melina Scherer, Malik Arafat, Deja Vanderbilt, Amirah Gibbs, Gaviena Frank and Jaema Bordelon photo by Taryn Reed