By Sohana Nasrin
Assistant Professor, Department of Communication
Incoming faculty advisor, The Minaret
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As I step into the role of faculty advisor for The Minaret, the University of Tampa’s student newspaper, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. The opportunity to guide and mentor a group of passionate, budding journalists is both a privilege and a responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly. The Minaret has a storied history of excellence, having been recognized by prestigious organizations such as the Florida College Press Association and the Society of Professional Journalists for its outstanding contributions to student journalism. It is my vision to build upon this legacy by fostering an environment where students can hone their skills, report on important community issues, and make a meaningful difference through their work.
In an era where news deserts are becoming increasingly prevalent, the role of student media is more critical than ever. Student newspapers like The Minaret provide a unique opportunity to fill the gaps left by diminishing local news outlets, offering coverage of issues that directly impact our campus and surrounding community.
This summer, the editor-in-chief Kiley Petracek, managing editor Shane Petagna, and business information director Aimee Kanaskie worked tirelessly to build a team of enthusiastic writers and designers. Their solid vision for the newspaper is inspiring and sets a strong foundation for the upcoming year. I am committed to supporting our students as they navigate the complexities of journalism, encouraging them to pursue stories that not only inform but also inspire change.
One of the core tenets of my advisory role will be to uphold the independence of The Minaret. It is essential that the newspaper remains a student-run organization, where students have the freedom to explore diverse topics and express their opinions. My role will be to provide guidance and support, ensuring that the students have the resources and knowledge they need to produce high-quality journalism. This includes offering advice on writing, editing, and ethical reporting, while also allowing students to take ownership of their work and learn from their experiences.
I am incredibly fortunate to be joining a team that has already demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication. I would also like to take a moment to express my gratitude to Dr. David Wheeler, my predecessor in this role, whose leadership and guidance have been instrumental in shaping The Minaret as a vibrant student publication. Dr. Wheeler’s commitment to excellence and his support for student journalists have left an indelible mark on the newspaper, and I am grateful for his continued presence and mentorship as I transition into this role.As I embark on this journey with The Minaret, I am filled with optimism for what lies ahead. Together with the talented team of student journalists, I am confident that we will continue to uphold the newspaper’s tradition of excellence while also exploring new avenues for storytelling and community engagement. My commitment is to empower our students to become thoughtful, responsible journalists who can make a positive impact through their work. I look forward to working alongside them as we strive to make The Minaret a beacon of journalistic integrity and a vital part of the University of Tampa community.