STUDENT BYLAWS
Maria Shaikh, University of Texas at Dallas
President
Maria Shaikh is a biochemistry junior with an Asian Studies minor at the University of Texas at Dallas. She got into journalism through working as Copy Editor at her school’s former student paper, The Mercury, winning multiple TIPA awards and progressing to become Managing Editor before helping launch a brand-new, independent student publication called The Retrograde, at which she is currently Managing Editor. Her passion for journalism stems from learning firsthand just how critical hyper-local coverage is to preserving facts and life stories amid today’s political turmoil and press crackdowns. Outside The Retrograde, Maria writes fiction and does biochemistry research, and hopes to pursue a chemistry Ph.D. while freelancing in science journalism and continuing to mentor student press outlets.
Imogen Brown, Tyler Junior College
Vice President
Imogen Brown is an advertising and public relations sophomore at Tyler Junior College. She has served as The Drumbeat’s Entertainment Editor and Co-Anchor of the The Drumbeat Broadcast for over one year. Her editorial work “Brat: A Campaign in Review” received an Honorable Mention for Photo Illustration and 2nd in Op/Ed Design. Her contribution as an Entertainment Editor of the Drumbeat has not gone unrecognized with the Issue 4 Fall 2024 receiving a 1st place for Overall Newspaper Design. Imogen alongside the rest of The Drumbeat Broadcast Staff received Second Place for Program Production. Imogen uses her photography, leadership, journalism, broadcasting and videography to question, “Who controls the narrative?” and give everyone a seat at the table.
Rayna Christy, Lamar University
Secretary
Rayna Christy is a sophomore majoring in communications with a journalism emphasis at Lamar University. She is currently a staff writer for the University Press. After the completion of her degree, Rayna plans on going into the journalism field alongside serving on the board of a nonprofit organization, particularly aspiring for mental health advocacy. She hopes to bridge the gap between nonprofits and the media, and allow organizations to get the coverage they need to continue helping the community.