Aspiring Journalists Begin Cleveland Media Academy with Expert Insights

On January 10, 2026, aspiring journalists from across Northeast Ohio gathered at the cleveland.com newsroom to commence the latest session of the Cleveland Media Academy. This intensive eight-week course aims to immerse students in the fundamentals of journalism through expert instruction and invaluable insights from prominent regional journalists.

Expert Guidance from Industry Leaders

The first session quickly shifted into a comprehensive learning experience led by Julia Washington, a health reporter at cleveland.com. Washington focused on the essential skills needed for successful journalism, including how to develop incisive interview questions, effective note-taking techniques, and best practices for crafting polished articles. Her engaging approach set a strong foundation for the students as they navigated the world of journalism.

The latter part of the day featured a lecture by Terry Pluto, a respected sports columnist with a long-standing career at cleveland.com and the Plain Dealer. Pluto captivated the audience with his insights into the nuances of sportswriting. He shared anecdotes from his career, illustrating the importance of building a network and establishing connections within the industry.

“I was writing about my freshman football team, after my English coach told me I had potential,” Pluto recounted. “The kid who originally made me quit football was actually reading my paper, which I thought was super interesting.”

Next Steps in the Cleveland Media Academy

The Cleveland Media Academy plans to reconvene for its next session on January 17, 2026, offering further opportunities for students to enhance their journalism skills. This initiative not only aims to educate but also to inspire the next generation of journalists through hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned professionals.

As the Academy progresses, participants like Andrew Davey, a high school student and attendee, will continue to learn from industry leaders and apply their newfound knowledge in practical settings. This initiative represents a significant step toward fostering a vibrant community of young journalists in the region.