Western Journalism Alum The Online Newsletter for WWU's Journalism Department
Visual journalism graduate brings photojournalistic-style storytelling to marketing
Jake Parrish, a 2015 visual journalism graduate, combined his editorial expertise with commercial photography to bring his storytelling skills to the marketing industry.
Parrish explained that after working in journalism for a while, he was ready to step back and explore other photography options. He started freelancing for both publications and commercial work, specifically for the hop industry.
Other Featured Stories
New student magazine uplifts BIPOC voices and pop culture
A magazine club on campus that focuses on uplifting BIPOC voices, fashion and culture is working toward publishing its second issue during spring quarter.
Co-editor-in-chiefs Ijomi Houston and Aryam Tamene began planning Soleil Magazine during spring quarter 2025 after being awarded a $5,250 grant through the Sustainability, Equity, & Justice Fund to help offset startup costs associated with publishing its first issue.
WWU Photo Video Club frames community through a sharper lens
Three visual journalism students co-founded the WWU Photo Video Club in Fall quarter, 2025. They started the club after taking Joe Gosen’s photojournalism course and they were eager to continue to grow their skills. See how they built community with this club.
New year, new leader: Charmaine Riley steps into WWPR’s presidency
Charmaine Riley has spent four of her 11 years in the public relations industry as a member of WWPR. During her first two years with the organization, she served as the co-chair of the Emerging Leaders Awards, which celebrates women ages 25 to 35 as they climb in the PR world. In 2025, the incoming president asked Riley to become vice president, which led to her accepting the role as president this year.
Western public relations student revitalizes PRSSA chapter
Sophie Cadran, a Journalism–Public Relations senior, is helping to inspire the next generation of public relations professionals through her leadership of Western’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).
As president, Cadran played an instrumental role in reviving the chapter after it went on hiatus during the pandemic.
In the News
Media stories featuring our alums, faculty and students
2026
Two alums promoted to managing editor positions at Cascadia Daily News – Cascadia Daily News
2025
Life in sobriety ‘works out well’ for news producer – Salish Current
Journalism’s Brian J. Bowe selected for Fulbright Specialist Roster – WWU News
CDN photographer reflects on community connections as she says goodbye – Cascadia Daily News
2024
Western becomes newest member of Kappa Tau Alpha journalism honors society – Western Today
Three journalism alums win lawsuit against Western for violating Washington State Public Records Act – Cascadia Daily News
2023
Trio of WWU faculty reflect on their time at Western as retirement looms – WWU News
Journalism’s Brian J. Bowe Receives Fulbright Award to Conduct Research Abroad in Palestine – WWU News
A trip to nationals helps launch a journalism career – Western Window