This article was written by Drue Hamlet
The Media Center in the College of Communication and Information welcomes a highly anticipated new publications advisor, Cheryl Welch.
“I’m honored to join a university with such a strong tradition of student media. The digital age has opened so many avenues for storytelling, and I’m eager to help our students leverage these tools to build upon The Daily Beacon’s legacy,” she said. “My goal is to empower the next generation to produce quality journalism essential for a well-informed public.”
Welch is no stranger to the Knoxville media landscape, having served for the past several years in a strategic executive communications role at the Tennessee Valley Authority. Prior to that she worked in various capacities at nonprofits and major news organizations. Welch has a strong understanding of the essential fundamentals of journalism, which she shares across The Media Center’s outlets, including The Daily Beacon.
“Cheryl Welch has brought not only an incredible wealth of experience to the newsroom, but her leadership style has transformed the way our staff responds to management. She extends feedback in a way that is both constructive and kind, and she pushes us to be the best version of the Beacon every day,” said Caden Dyer, editor-in-chief of the Beacon. “I am so grateful that I get to experience both her leadership and knowledge as I serve the university.”
Providing hands-on mentorship to students across CCI comes naturally to Welch. She has led several new workshops and collaboration opportunities for students, including the Launchpad Series. This opportunity welcomes students of all levels to strengthen their knowledge of journalism topics such as investigative practices and sunshine laws.
“The Launchpad Series has helped me fine-tune my skills and get a bit deeper understanding on certain parts of writing a journalistic story. I’m very picky about how I write my ledes, and when I went to my first Launchpad Series, Cheryl helped me figure out where to start,” said freshman Zoe Mandel, who attended a recent news development workshop. “I’m looking forward to the next [workshop] and getting the chance to build a connection with her throughout my years here!”
Despite being in the role for only a few months, Welch has immersed herself into the mission and vision of The Media Center. She hopes to strengthen the caliber of journalistic reporting while fostering a community of professional growth and industry readiness.
“Cheryl has been an amazing addition to our team. Her guidance and mentorship is helping our students grow as journalists and is strengthening the student experience for everyone involved in The Media Center,” said Nick Geider, director of The Media Center.
Now that Welch is settled into her new role, she has witnessed the true talent within CCI. She sees the students’ “passion for excellence that is contagious” and she is eager to continue working in The Media Center as it grows and evolves.
“I’ve been so incredibly impressed by the College of Communication and Information’s Media Center and the dedicated, talented faculty, staff and students who make it such a special place. I am truly honored to become a part of the Vol family,” she said. “This community’s passion for excellence is contagious, and I’m excited to work alongside them to build on this remarkable legacy.”