Assistant Editor-in-Chief of Flyer News introduces herself

Readers,
Hello! My name is Riley Howell, and I am proud to introduce myself as Flyer News’ Assistant
Editor-in-Chief for the 2026-27 school year.
I know, I know, I could probably jump right in with a deep dive into journalistic ethics, the
power of student news and why student-run publications matter. I will get there. But first, I want
to introduce myself the way I would in one of those “get-to-know-you” games nobody really
likes.
I am from the Dayton area, so I have strong feelings about local restaurants, unpredictable Ohio
weather and why the outside world does not always get how cool this place is. I am a
communication major with a concentration in journalism, and I am entering my junior year here
at UD. I also have minors in political science and history, which basically means I like asking too
many questions, dissecting every tiny thing and occasionally geeking out over current events.
When I am not buried in coursework or staring at a blank document, I love cooking, reading,
seeing new movies, kayaking and spending time with my friends. My favorite movie is Uncut
Gems, which probably says something about my stress tolerance.
My coffee order is usually just a plain iced latte, although I will never turn down a good matcha.
I love jazz music, I am a big cat person despite currently having no pets and I grew up with three
older brothers, one of whom is a fellow Flyer.
For as long as I can remember, I have been driven by a curiosity for the “why.” I want to know
what people are passionate about and what they think the rest of us should be paying more
attention to. It is no surprise, then, that I found myself drawn to journalism in the first place. It
gives me a reason to ask questions, dive headfirst into topics and communities and turn those
conversations into something other people can read.
Oh, and one last important note for the food enthusiasts among you: I have made it a personal
goal to try every burger Dayton has to offer. It is not exactly a journalistic credential, but I would
argue that it shows curiosity, commitment and a willingness to investigate matters of public
interest, or, at the very least, my public interest.
I hopped aboard the Flyer News team last year as a contributing writer, figuring things out as I
went and still learning what kind of journalist I wanted to be. I began writing articles regularly,
then joined the Flyer News practicum, where I gained more hands-on experience reporting,
editing and understanding the general chaotic beauty of putting a student newspaper together.
Since then, Flyer News has become one of my most enriching experiences at UD, strengthening
my writing, helping me collaborate with others and encouraging me to be more aware of the
community around me. I have learned that student journalism can be demanding, but also
incredibly rewarding when you see a story you worked on reach your peers.
This year, I am excited to step into the role of Assistant Editor-in-Chief. It is a responsibility I
take seriously, not because journalism has to be some buttoned-up, overly formal thing, but
because it genuinely matters. Flyer News serves as a window into campus life for our fellow
students. It helps people stay informed and engaged with the UD experience in a way that feels
closer to them because it comes from other students.
One thing I am especially excited about is growing our multimedia presence. Writing will always
be at the center of Flyer News, but photos, videos, audio and social media can help us connect
with students in formats that reflect how people actually keep up with information now. I am not
looking to completely reinvent the wheel. I just want us to build upon what is working and
experiment a little along the way.
For students who do not currently read Flyer News, I hope you give us a chance this year.
Student media is not separate from campus life. It is part of it. It is a way to stay in the know
about what is happening around UD, but it is also a platform to hear from fellow students who
are navigating this place right alongside you.
For students who might want to join us, please do. We are always looking for new voices and
perspectives, and you do not need to have everything figured out before you start. You do not
need a perfectly formed journalistic identity. Honestly, most people are figuring it out as they go.
Interest and curiosity are enough to begin.
More than anything, I am excited to be part of this staff and this year of Flyer News. I hope we
continue to grow into a publication that students trust, recognize and want to be part of. The year
ahead is full of possibilities, and I am excited for the stories we get to tell together.
With honest regards,
Riley Howell