On Thursday, April 24, English and Journalism teacher Jeanne Hanigan checked in for her 8 a.m. volunteer spot at the Sheraton Grand Seattle. For the next three days (from April 24 to April 26), the hotel and the Seattle Convention Center hosted the National Scholastic Press Association/ Journalism Education Association (NSPA/JEA) convention/conference. For months preceding the event, Hanigan joined other Washington Journalism Education Association (WJEA) local educators to help plan for and execute the monumental endeavor.
According to Executive Director Kathy Schrier in an email, “We managed to have beautiful weather for the 3,300 attendees from across the country, who attended more than 300 sessions, contests, special training sessions and featured speakers.”
Hanigan was able to meet with private school teachers, and even the journalism educator from Jesuit High School in Portland, OR. San Jose’s Bellarmine College Prep staff members were in attendance, but their paths never crossed. Private school journalism programs often have unique perspectives because of their private schools status, so the opportunity to gather together was beneficial.
“As always, I learned so much and am inspired again,” said Hanigan. “It was an honor to receive recognition for my CJE (Certified Journalism Educator) renewal as well.”
Although Hanigan was solo at this convention, her journalism students assured her that they are planning on attending the fall convention in Nashville, TN, from Nov. 13-15.
Luckily, a perk that Hanigan enjoyed was that she was able to assist with the Bellarmine alumni gathering in Seattle where, no surprise, former Lion journalism staff members were in attendance as well.
