When Fynn Grindle ’25 arrived at Oglethorpe University as a communication studies major with a focus in rhetoric and public advocacy, they had one clear goal: to get involved with “The Stormy Petrel,” the university’s student-run newspaper. Now, as Grindle prepares to graduate, they have not only achieved that goal—they’ve transformed the paper into a thriving platform for student voices and storytelling.
“Revitalizing the paper was definitely a long-haul project,” said Grindle. “Being the only officer and really the only official, permanent student staff member of ‘The Stormy Petrel’ for relatively two years was hard for sure. I enjoyed it, but getting people involved was a challenge.”
Despite the obstacles, Grindle was determined to redefine the newspaper’s image and broaden its appeal to their fellow students.
“You hear ‘newspaper’ and instantly groan at the thought of having to report hard news,” they said. “But something I always tried to reiterate was that ‘The Stormy Petrel’ isn’t just about news. You can write about what interests you and really have an opportunity to be proud of your writing being published.”
Grindle’s commitment and perseverance not only increased the paper’s visibility and readership but also created momentum that inspired further investment from Oglethorpe’s faculty. “The Stormy Petrel’s” longtime advisor, Dr. Seema Shrikhande, professor of communication studies, launched a new course focused on news writing and reporting through “The Stormy Petrel.”
“The class has been absolutely amazing—I am so thankful we were able to get it established,” Grindle said. “Having dedicated writers and people who are actively creating content for the newspaper is exactly what we need. I think the class will be integral in keeping the newspaper alive in the future.”
The course, taught by Dr. Shrikhande, introduces students to key elements of journalistic writing, including how to develop story ideas, gather diverse sources and perspectives, and write both news and feature stories in AP style. Students are required to produce four publishable articles over the semester and are encouraged to explore campus life, events and local culture.
“Journalistic writing is valuable in many media professions,” Dr. Shrikhande said. “And the rigor of accuracy and fact-checking, learning to critically assess information, and deciding how to present it most effectively are skills that are valuable in any profession.”
In just one semester, the course has already had a noticeable impact, not only
increasing the number of contributors to “The Stormy Petrel” but also improving the quality and diversity of content. From student profiles to coverage of conventions like DreamHack ATL and Anime Weekend Atlanta, the paper has become a vibrant outlet for student expression and community engagement.
Grindle credits much of the success to the support they’ve received from faculty like Dr. Shrikhande, whose mentorship has helped shape the newspaper into a lasting student-led initiative.
“I think being a part of ‘The Stormy Petrel’ and being the editor-in-chief will always be a point of pride for me,” Grindle said. “It’s something that has given me a lot of amazing experience moving forward. If there’s anyone interested in writing a story, reach out! You don’t have to have any crazy prior experience—just a passion for a story and a desire to improve your reporting.”
As “The Stormy Petrel” continues to grow, thanks to student leadership and academic support, its future looks bright—not just as a publication, but as a hands-on learning lab for the next generation of journalists, storytellers and engaged citizens.
Among those stepping up to carry the torch is communication studies student Rachel Spooner ’26, who also took Dr. Shrikhande’s news writing course. Spooner will help lead the newspaper next semester, continuing the momentum sparked by Grindle’s leadership and ensuring that “The Stormy Petrel” remains a vibrant and inclusive platform for student voices.
