State Senator speaks to students
Emily MaGavern
Issue date: 10/23/09 Section: News
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Since 1949, the university has organized a program for high school students to experience the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at St. Bonaventure.
"Over 280 students from 15 local area high schools traveled to campus to experience a day in the life of a journalism student," said Lee Coppola, dean of the Russell J. Jandoli School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Originally called "Press Day," the program included workshops, sample classes, in Hickey Dining Hall and a speech given by Senator Young, Coppola said.
The school of journalism and mass communication chose Young because of her qualifications in the field.
"We chose Catharine Young as the keynote speaker because she was a JMC graduate herself," Coppola said. "The skills she learned from our program have led her to public service, which proves how the JMC program can show the way to many different careers."
Sister Margaret Carney, O.S.F, university president, opened the program by explaining the importance of civil responsibility. She welcomed Sen. Young to the stage to address the guests in Dresser Auditorium.
Young began her career as a journalist, she said. She then worked in non-profit public relations and later, politics. She stressed that starting small will pay off in the end. She wrote obituaries, small stories and even wedding notices in order to become who she is today.
Young stressed that journalists have to help their audience.
"The most important thing is to serve others," she said.
Her background in communications led her to be elected into Cattaraugus county legislature and eventually New York State senator.
Young emphasized hard work.
"Don't ever get lazy, keep working, and continue to write," she said
The senator ended her speech by thanking the students for their presence.
"Those who attended showed initiative. I know that you all care about your future," Young said.
Coppola awarded Sen. Young with the Russell J. Jandoli Award for Excellence in journalism. Mrs. Russell Jandoli was in attendance to commend Young for her success.
After the presentation, Ann Lewis, Orchard Park High School senior, said she enjoyed the speech by Young.
"Sen. Catharine Young was very well spoken. She served as a great example of what any student can aspire to be with hard work and perseverance."
Coppola said St. Bonaventure plans to continue the Communications Day tradition next year due because of its continual success.
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