ASD

William Allen Student Accepted to Prestigious Journalism Conference



 

Allentown, PA (February 7, 2017)  William Allen junior, Victoria Durgin, has been selected to represent Allentown, Pennsylvania as a National Youth Correspondent to the 2017 Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University. Durgin was chosen based on academic accomplishments, as well as her interest and excellence in journalism and media studies.

She will join a select group of student leaders from all over the country who will participate in an intensive study of journalism and media at the Conference held July 16 to 21 at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA, just 15 miles outside of Washington, D.C.

“This is an incredible opportunity for Victoria and we could not be more proud of her acceptance to this conference,” states Luke Shafnisky, William Allen High School Principal. “Throughout the week, she will engage in an exceptional learning experience and will be visiting and touring the Capitol and Smithsonian Museums – what a great addition to her academic journey.”

National Youth Correspondents participate in hands-on, experiential learning through decision-making simulations that challenge them to solve problems and explore the creative, practical, and ethical tensions

inherent in journalism and media. The experiential portion of the program is complemented by speakers who are

well-known leaders in the media community. Presenters include prominent journalists, CEOs of major media outlets, researchers, and recent college graduates successfully entering the field. Past speakers have included Hoda Kotb from NBC, Brian Lamb from C-SPAN, Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Carol Guzy, and Sonya Ross from the Associated Press.

With distinguished faculty, guest speakers, and direct access to elite D.C. practitioners, the Washington Journalism and Media Conference offers aspiring journalists and student leaders an unparalleled experience. The week long program, held at George Mason University’s state-of-the-art campus, will encourage and inspire young leaders from across the country who desire a unique experience focused on successful careers in this dynamic industry.

About Allentown School District

ASD serves more than 17,000 students in a network of 22 early childhood, elementary, middle and high schools throughout the City of Allentown, PA. The District is the third largest urban school district out of 500 districts in the Commonwealth. The District’s Mission focuses on providing a safe, rigorous, and engaging educational experience that prepares all students to excel in learning and life to guide ASD students on their individual journey to realize their aspirations whether they be college, career or technical focus. ASD goals are aligned and compatible with the Pathways to Success Framework while providing a balanced education to all students. Allentown School District employs approximately 2,200 teachers, staff and administrators. The District, founded in 1866, serves students from 51 countries speaking 26 languages with nearly 90 percent of households qualifying as low income. ASD is committed to ensuring that all students have equal access to education programs and resources.

www.allentownsd.org

Information provided by:
Kimberly Golden Benner
Director of Communications
Allentown School District