Collins attends journalism and media conference in Washington D.C.

Madeline Collins, a rising junior at Shiner High School and daughter of Mike and Sarah Collins, recently returned from the Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC), an honors program held at George Mason University in Washington, D.C. 
The selective conference brings together student leaders from across the country to explore journalism, media, and communication through hands-on experiences and interaction with professionals in the field.
Collins was chosen to represent Texas as a National Youth Correspondent based on her academic success, leadership involvement, and passion for media. 
Over the course of the week, students participated in newsroom simulations, field assignments, and breakout sessions that explored topics like storytelling, ethics, photography, and the power of local news.
“Going into the program, I was nervous and didn’t know if I belonged,” said Collins. “But once I got there, I realized everyone was there to learn. No one knew everything, we were all growing together.”
Throughout the conference, Collins and her fellow correspondents had the opportunity to meet and learn from professional journalists and visual storytellers. One of the most impactful sessions for her was a talk by Stephen Taglieri, founder of Kingdom Multimedia, who uses photography to support environmental conservation.
“His message really stuck with me,” Collins said. “I’ve always dreamed of being a veterinarian for elephants or other large exotic animals. But now I understand how photo journalism can also be a tool to protect them. Telling their stories can change how people see and care about conservation.”
She was also inspired by National Geographic photographer Megan Reese, who spoke about the importance of visual storytelling in global journalism. 
Reese’s insights into capturing the human side of environmental and cultural stories made a strong impression on Collins, who hopes to one day blend veterinary medicine with impactful media to raise awareness about endangered species.
“Listening to Ms. Reese talk about her work around the world made me realize how powerful images can be,” Collins said. “They help us connect emotionally and see beyond our everyday experiences.”
Photojournalist Anna Rose Layden also shared her approach to capturing truth and emotion through photography, which further encouraged Collins to think critically about the stories behind each image and the responsibility that comes with sharing them.
In addition to lectures and workshops, students visited landmarks such as the National Press Club, the International Spy Museum, the National Gallery of Art, and the U.S. Botanic Garden. 
While at the Spy Museum, Collins participated in a breakout session that explored the role of intelligence and media in shaping public understanding.  She described the experience as both fun and eye-opening, noting how the exhibits and activities brought real-world context to discussions on global affairs.
Collins also had the chance to see many of the nation’s most iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II and Vietnam Veterans Memorials.
She called the National Gallery one of her favorite stops, saying it reminded her how creativity connects people across time and place. Just as meaningful as the curriculum were the friendships formed along the way. “We came from different parts of the country, but we clicked right away,” she said. 
“I learned so much just by talking with them, about regional differences, personal goals, and how we each see the world. It made me more open-minded and confident.”
Now back in Texas, Collins says she feels more connected to her future than ever before. The experience helped her see that journalism and science are not separate paths, but powerful partners in protecting what matters.
“This week reminded me that I don’t have to wait to make a difference,” she said. “Whether it’s through medicine, photography, or just having conversations, I’ve learned how important it is to connect, listen, and speak up.”