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Marlin Chronicle Editors Inspired at MediaFest 25
Journalistic instincts ignited as student reporters connect, learn, and look ahead
University News | October 24, 2025
A group of Virginia Wesleyan University student journalists recently returned from MediaFest 25, the joint national convention of the College Media Association and Associated Collegiate Press, held October 15–18 in Washington, D.C. Accompanied by Professor of Media and Communication and Marlin Chronicle advisor Dr. Lisa Lyon Payne, seven members of VWU’s student newspaper staff immersed themselves in workshops, panels, and networking opportunities with professional and collegiate journalists from across the country.
“Each year, this conference affirms the hard work of our student journalists and reinforces the core values that guide what they do every week,” said Payne.
Representing the Marlin Chronicle at MediaFest 25 were:
- Lily Reslink, Editor-in-Chief
- Victoria Haneline, Managing Editor and Copy Editor
- Isaac Fick, Managing Editor, News Editor, and Opinions Editor
- Calee Lukowski, The Weekender Editor
- Eli Casey, Co-Sports Editor
- Laila Jones, Photography Editor
- Elena Lichtenwalner, Copy Editor
Reslink shared that team discussions during the trip led to creative restructuring within the newsroom. “After our October 30 issue, Isaac Fick will hand off the Opinions Editor position to Elena Lichtenwalner and Victoria Haneline,” she said. “This is just one way that the conference encouraged us to collaborate and shake things up.”
Beyond the conference sessions, Reslink said the city itself inspired the team. “Experiencing the current climate of D.C. definitely stimulated our journalistic instincts to keep eyes and ears open for compelling and interesting stories.”
She added that gatherings like MediaFest serve as catalysts for growth: “Conferences where like-minded students and professionals can share experiences can change the game in bringing new ideas for content and approaches. Meeting others who have the same passions, struggles, and irreparable sleep schedules should be considered therapeutic.”
For Reslink, now a senior, the experience also provided valuable professional preparation. “Networking was a huge priority for me as I prepare to enter the media and communication job market,” she said. “The conference emphasized the challenges of pursuing journalism today but also offered encouragement and practical advice. I feel lucky to have made great connections with peers and employers — and I’m proud to say my makeshift business cards from the library went to good use!”
Reflecting on the trip, Reslink emphasized the team’s renewed sense of purpose. “We bonded and learned as a team. I can feel a new energy from the group, and I’m looking forward to how this fresh invigoration will shape our continued journey toward quality journalism and meaningful content for our community.”
Managing Editor Isaac Fick agreed that the experience broadened his perspective. “Meeting like-minded students—from journalists to literary magazine managers—opened my eyes to perspectives I wasn’t previously aware of,” he said. “Hearing from advisers and professionals who shared insights from their careers encouraged a more holistic view of journalism. The conference sparked creativity, deepened my passion for the field, and expanded my understanding of what it means to be part of this profession.”