ECHS Student Selected As Correspondent To Washington Journalism and Media Conference

Darren Doyle, story:
Sara Hurst, a student at Edmonson County High School, has been selected to represent Brownsville, KY as a National Youth Correspondent to the 2020 Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University.

Sara is a junior at ECHS, where she is a member of the Beta, Math, and Science Clubs. She holds special interests in both reading and writing and hopes to become an author and journalist after high school.

Hurst joins a select group of students from all over the country for an intensive study of journalism and media. Hurst was chosen based on academic accomplishments and a demonstrated interest and excellence in journalism and media studies.

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.

Sara credited several community businesses and residents for donating to the costs of her trip that included: Rhonda Clemmons, Lensey Collins, C&C Firearms, Dairy Queen, Mutts N Suds Pet Grooming, Jacob's Log Furniture, and Bank of Edmonson County, in addition to family and friends.

"I've already made so many friends through a group chat we created to get to know each other before the conference. I am so excited and can't wait until July," she said. 

A statement from the conference said, "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."

Sara is the daughter of Christina Hurst of Brownsville.

The Washington Journalism and Media Conference will be held July 19 to 24, 2020.