A student journalist’s experience at the Michigan Press Association’s Salute to Journalism event
By: April Hernandez
PLYMOUTH – The Michigan Press Association held their Salute to Journalism event on March 14 at the beautiful Saint John’s Resort in Detroit, Michigan. This was a celebration of journalism in its finest form, and it was a blast. They welcomed students and journalists from all over the state, making it a great experience for everyone. As a budding journalist attending the event, it was a reaffirmation of my aspirations and a glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead in my career journey.
The best part of the night was the award ceremony. It was all about celebrating the hard work of journalism from veteran to college newspapers, including our very own Delta Collegiate, alongside other college newspapers like The Collegiate, The State News, and The Eastern Echo. Papers like the Traverse City Record Eagle totally stole the show, bagging some major wins. It was a real highlight of the evening!
For the Salute to Journalism event, guests were treated to delicious food, drinks, desserts and the service was top-notch. The entertainment for the evening was comedian Heywood Banks, who joked about his 35-year career stemming from “banging on a toaster.”
The friendly atmosphere, especially towards college students, is a memory I will hold dear. It was an excellent opportunity to network with potential employers and gain insights into our future careers. For the Delta Collegiate staff, it was an unforgettable night filled with valuable connections and information. As a journalism student, witnessing my peers being honored alongside seasoned professionals was inspiring, demonstrating that excellence in journalism knows no boundaries.
As the event came to a close, I couldn’t help but think about the importance of journalism in shaping our world. In an era where truth is often hidden by misinformation and skepticism, journalists are at the frontlines, shining a light on the issues that matter most.
The Salute to Journalism event was a reminder of why we do what we do – to inform, inspire and make a difference. And for that, we salute journalism, now and always.
Congratulations to all of the 2024 MPA winners and grant recipients.
