The coincidence of Wednesday, September 7 could not have been more timely. On that day, the129-year old Newspaper Association of America eliminated “Newspaper” from its title and became the News Media Alliance. It was also the day of my first meeting with the 2016-17 staff of The Rambler.
It’s only fitting that in such a pivotal and historic moment for the news industry, relevant changes have come to The Rambler, including my arrival as Transy’s new Student Media Advisor.
But before I share some details of those changes, allow me to introduce myself.
I’m a native of Morehead and was a communications major at Morehead State University when opportunity struck and I began a lifelong career in broadcast, print and online news. High points have included serving as a member of the founding staff of Associated Press Radio Network News in Washington, D.C., as well as the founding staff of RKO Radio Network News, ABC Radio Network News and WABC News in New York. I was the founding Editor in Chief of Business Lexington and am now a columnist for the Lexington Herald-Leader with a companion feature airing on WEKU, and co-publisher of the online cultural affairs magazine UnderMain (under-main.com)
Amazing changes in media have taken place during those years, ranging from the invention of FM radio to the arrival of digital technology. But nothing compares to the paradigm shift occurring today as Transy students prepare to make their way in this world.
The Newspaper Association of America had until Sept. 7 admitted only those organizations with print components. The change in title signifies recognition that professional, digital-only news is here to stay.
Fittingly, the Rambler has transitioned from a campus newspaper to a campus news and information organization. The newspaper is moving to a bi-weekly print schedule to enable more emphasis on its online presence. In fact, there now will be not one but two Rambler websites. transyrambler.com will remain the familiar “go to” resource for news and information about what’s happening on campus and in the surrounding community, while ramblerextra.com (now under construction) will serve as a multi-media platform for video, podcasts, and photography.
I’m looking forward to leading training sessions on topics ranging from newsroom ethical dilemmas and First Amendment challenges to coverage selection, interviewing technique, and fact-checking. And we’ll host special guests, experts in various forms of media, to share their perspectives.
Under the very capable leadership of Editor in Chief Megan Graft and Managing Editor Madison Crader, our staff includes News Editor Jennifer Pinto, Creative Director Tyler Lega, Campus life editor Aaron Martin, Opinion editor Tristan Reynolds and A&E editor Christopher Perez.
If you are interested in becoming a content contributor, contact Megan at mjgraft18@transy.edu or me at tmartin@transy.edu.
Feel welcome to drop by. The Rambler newsroom is now located in Forrer room 042, adjacent to the lobby.
