In Fall 2022, the Disney Storytellers Fund at FAMU was created with a $1 million grant from The Walt Disney Company as part of the Disney Future Storytellers program. Disney Future Storytellers is The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to empowering the next generation of storytellers and innovators.
Some FAMU scholars majoring in journalism, public relations and graphic design are spending the summer in internships at Disney, including ABC News in New York City. Their internship specialties range from investigative journalism, graphic design, digital content production, publicity and special events. Working in various ABC News departments has given students the experience they need to grow their storytelling skills.
“My writing skills have undergone a remarkable transformation, particularly in the realm of breaking news,” says Broadcast Journalism major Sherby Perez. “I discovered the assignment desk’s pivotal role in orchestrating seamless productions for prestigious shows like Good Morning America (GMA), Prime Time, and ABC World News Tonight with David Muir.”
Throughout their internships, the Disney Storytellers Fund at FAMU scholars have received hands-on experience and continued exposure to the media industry as they sharpen their respective skill sets.
Graphic Design student Darryl Smith understands the value of this development opportunity. “Interning with a Disney-owned media outlet will give me the tools and pathway to success. This internship will help me climb the ladder of the graphic design industry with the use of my networking skills, growth as a designer and exposure to professional work ethic,” he says.
For senior Broadcast Journalism major Briana Michel, the lessons she has learned go beyond the newsroom. “ABC News has taught me that there is a balance between the news industry and a happy life – all I have to do is look around. From the 10-week intern to the 25+ year producer, we’re in a business that encourages you to be a student for life… to never stop learning.”
The inaugural cohort of the Disney Storytellers Fund at FAMU Scholars are:
Scholars
Jonathan David
JournalismSenior
Jaden Bowen
JournalismJunior
Briana Michel
JournalismSenior
Sidney Berry
Public RelationsJunior
Devani Allen
JournalismJunior
Sherby Perez
JournalismJunior
Jasmine Butler
JournalismSenior
Dalilah Posley
JournalismSenior
Jordan Forbes
JournalismJunior
Beyla Walker
JournalismSenior
Kendall Williams
JournalismJunior
Sydney Richardson
Graphic DesignJunior
Stacey René
JournalismSenior
Edna Rutland
JournalismSenior
Sasha Williams
Public RelationsSenior
Jordan Joseph
Public RelationsJunior
Darryl Smith
Graphic DesignSenior
