Torch Editor-in-Chief (Student Position)

Ferris State University•Big Rapids, MI

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Ferris State Torch is an entirely student-run publication created by students and for students, publishing 27 Wednesdays throughout the academic year. It serves as a platform for student voices, covering campus news and community stories, with a mission to inform, engage, and represent the Ferris community while providing students with hands-on experience in journalism and media. Staff members gain real-world experience in reporting, interviewing, editing, and photography, learning core journalistic values like accuracy and integrity. Working for the Torch offers an opportunity to build a portfolio, develop professional skills, and actively contribute to campus life as part of a collaborative, student-led team. Students from any major are welcome. The editor-in-chief is the chief executive officer of the Torch, directing all editorial and production activities. This role involves setting editorial guidelines, determining the paper's editorial scope, and ensuring quality and consistency. The editor-in-chief also oversees all employees in every aspect of the Torch's operation. As the voice of the student newspaper, the editor-in-chief is ultimately responsible for the direction and growth of the Torch, with all content decisions made by student staff members receiving final approval from the editor-in-chief.

Requirements

Experience with journalistic editing and publishing processes.
Experience with (or willingness to learn) desktop publishing software, such as Adobe InDesign.
Experience with (or willingness to learn) web publishing platforms, such as WordPress.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Experience with Associated Press (AP) Style.
Must be organized and manage time appropriately to meet publication deadlines.
Ability to communicate feedback in a constructive and formative way.
Commitment to ethical journalism standards.

Responsibilities

Oversees all aspects of weekly production and distribution of the Torch.
Responsible for ensuring the overall quality and consistency of the Torch.
Ensures that each issue meets AP and Torch style guidelines.
Ensures the Torch maintains all ethical and legal journalistic standards.
Ensures all staff members meet their weekly deadline.
Provides timely feedback to section editors, production designers, editors, reporters, photographers, and freelancers.
Coordinates and facilitates weekly staff meeting during the fall and spring semesters.
Maintains regular communication with the Torch Advisor.
In conjunction with the Torch Advisor, serves as a liaison between the Torch and its publishing partner(s).
In conjunction with the Torch Advisor, addresses inquiries and concerns.