A Year of Building Student Journalism: PSPA’s 2025 Recap

The 2024–2025 academic year marked a defining chapter for the Philadelphia Student Press Association (PSPA). What began as an idea rooted in collaboration, access, and student voice quickly grew into a citywide organization actively shaping the future of student journalism in Philadelphia. From launching our organization and digital presence, to appearing on the skyline, hosting community-centered conversations, and gaining recognition from major media institutions, this year proved what is possible when student journalists are given space, support, and opportunity.

Founded in April 2025 by Jackson Juzang, PSPA was created with a clear mission: to strengthen student journalism, empower young reporters, and amplify student voices across Philadelphia. In just one year, that mission moved from vision to reality.

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Launching PSPA — and Our Digital Presence

One of PSPA’s earliest milestones was the launch of our official website in August 2025. The site became a hub for student journalists, a space to explore opportunities, share stories, and connect with a growing community. It reflected PSPA’s values and commitment to supporting student voices, while making it easy for students and schools to get involved.

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Lighting Up the Skyline: PSPA on the PECO Building

In September, PSPA reached a moment few student organizations ever experience: appearing on the iconic PECO building sign in Center City Philadelphia.

Displayed across the massive LED screen was a message that captured our mission in just a few words:

“Our City. Our Voice. Our Story. www.phillystudentpress.org”

Seeing student journalism represented there affirmed the importance of student voices in the city’s media ecosystem and showcased the visibility PSPA has quickly gained. The PECO sign appearance served as both a celebration of student reporting and a powerful statement to the wider community: student perspectives matter, and they belong in public conversation.

This milestone inspired members and supporters alike, motivating student journalists to continue amplifying their voices and reminding the public of the essential role young reporters play in documenting city life.

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Engaging the City at CollegeFest 2025

Later that month, PSPA connected directly with students and community members at CollegeFest 2025, one of the region’s largest student-focused events. Hosting a booth allowed PSPA to share its mission face-to-face with hundreds of attendees, sparking conversations about the role of student journalism and how students could get involved.

A highlight of the booth was PSPA’s Engagement Board, which asked: “What do you want to see student journalists report on?” Students wrote more than 130 responses, ranging from SEPTA and mental health issues to education policy and global events, emphasizing that student journalism extends beyond campus life and engages with the broader world.

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PSPA Taking Student Journalism to the New York Film Festival

PSPA reached a new level of professional access in late September by attending the New York Film Festival (NYFF) as credentialed members of the press. Represented by Founder Jackson Juzang, PSPA joined journalists from across the country at one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals.

Through coverage of the world premiere of After the Hunt and participation in a press roundtable, PSPA demonstrated that student voices belong in professional journalism spaces. Beyond reporting, the festival provided exposure to large-scale media operations, press logistics, and networking, reinforcing PSPA’s commitment to providing real-world opportunities for students.

This experience allowed student journalists to gain insight into the mechanics of professional media coverage, from red carpet coordination to interviews with high-profile figures. The opportunity also strengthened PSPA’s credibility, proving that student reporters can operate at the same level as professional journalists and contribute meaningful questions and perspectives.

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Hosting Critical Conversations on Journalism and Free Speech

In November, PSPA participated in high-impact panels, including a Tri-College discussion on free speech, misinformation, and media trust, featuring accomplished journalists Clea Benson, Don Sapatkin, and Theodore Gup. These conversations emphasized PSPA’s role as a facilitator of dialogue about the future of journalism.

PSPA also co-sponsored “Reporting With, Not On: Community Journalism in Practice” at Temple University, highlighting ethical, community-centered reporting. Panelists Rasheed Ajamu, Emma Restrepo, and Steve Volk explored ways journalists can center trust, collaboration, and lived experience in their work.

These events reinforced the idea that journalism is not just about reporting facts, but about building relationships, understanding communities, and promoting accountability. Students gained firsthand insight into approaches that elevate community voices and challenge traditional reporting methods, shaping them into more thoughtful and responsible journalists.

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Recognition and Looking Ahead

Capping off the year, PSPA was featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer, a milestone that underscored the organization’s growing presence and credibility within the city’s media landscape.

In one year, PSPA launched an organization, created opportunities, hosted conversations, and amplified student voices across Philadelphia and beyond.

Looking ahead, PSPA is committed to expanding programs, connecting more student reporters, and deepening partnerships with schools and media professionals. This momentum sets the stage for continued growth and influence in Philadelphia’s student journalism scene.

This is only the beginning. PSPA will continue expanding resources, deepening partnerships, and opening doors for student journalists citywide. Together, we are proving that student journalism is not just the future of media — it is an essential part of its present.

Our City. Our Voice. Our Story.