Julie Hirschi, current student media video manager, is the next editor-in-chief of The Daily Utah Chronicle.
Hirschi’s goals are to transform the news outlet into a more digital, user-interactive format. She was the former editor-in-chief of The Globe, Salt Lake Community College’s (SLCC) student paper. She completed her associate’s degree in English before transferring to the U, where she is currently a junior in journalism.
At SLCC, Hirschi changed her major several times before she realized her enthusiasm for journalism. She said she knew she wanted to write but was also passionate about graphic design, political science, visual arts and a whole array of other topics.
Then, in the shower one day, she realized there was a field in which she could combine all these interests.
“It just hit me — take a journalism class! You always think of good ideas in the shower,” Hirschi said.
Since joining the Chronicle a year ago, she has built the current video desk from the ground up, collaborating with K-UTE, digital, marketing and other aspects of student media. Hirschi said her experience showed the importance of uniting these groups and making them more cohesive. She hopes to encourage increased partnership between departments and sharing content to create multi-media stories.
Katherine Ellis, the current editor-in-chief, worked closely with Hirschi, who was one of three candidates for the job. Ellis said she believes Hirschi is highly qualified for the position, both because of her experience and the vision she has for the Chronicle. Ellis said it’s important that the new editor-in-chief continues to build on the progress of the previous one.
Ellis was the first editor-in-chief in 125 years to cut the amount of print papers issued, and this year The Daily Utah Chronicle won “best website” in its category at the Utah Press Awards. Hirschi said that while she will persevere with and has the utmost respect for traditional journalism, she will continue to push digital with multi-media facets.
“She’s going to continue to take us in a direction that is relevant and takes the Chronicle to the next step,” Ellis said.
Hirschi said she loves that journalism allows for creativity and the pursuit of varied interests in one’s work.
“A boss assigns blame, whereas a leader asks, ‘How can I help you get better? How can I help this paper get better?’” Hirschi said.
She thinks this leadership style enabled her to create an exciting and inclusive atmosphere during her time at The Globe.
Ellis said she appreciates that Hirschi will prioritize the student journalist’s experience, allowing students to “put their own stamp on things.”
Pointing to the editor-in-chief’s office, Hirschi said, “I want an open door policy. I want that room to be bustling.”
@NikiVenugopal