A note from Des Lewis, Managing Editor

Hello all!

My name is Des Lewis, a senior at Florida State University whose passion for the earth and those who inhabit it drives me to discover, cultivate, and tell stories.

Some of you who have followed the News Watch for some time now may recognize my name from a byline or two I’ve produced over the past year as a student journalist with this program.

I am so happy to now be able to give to this organization in a new way as Managing Editor. I'm taking the helm from Casey Chapter, who guided this organization through two years of growth.

I am eager to take this next step with the Florida Student News Watch, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunities I received as a student journalist here.

Not only did I have the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals in the field, who are wonderful people, but also grew my confidence in specific journalistic skills. During my time as a journalist here, my faith in my ability as a writer skyrocketed.

Des Lewis, Managing Editor of the Florida Student News Watch

The mentorship program really aided in allowing me to trust myself and be unafraid. So often as a creative, it’s hard to feel stuck in the rigid conformity of others' expectations. What is so unique about this experience is it teaches you to cultivate what interests YOU, regardless of how many others share your interest.

It is such a special thing to be able to have someone so respected in their field take the time to help build your ideas into strong pieces you can be proud of. I am eager to be on the other end of this beautiful mentorship program and be able to help more students grow into the writers they are capable of being. 

I look forward to where we go in 2025.