About the Staff

Summer Semester 2023 Clarion Staff


Executive Editor

Diane Sikora

Major: Multimedia Journalism

Bio:  Hi, my name is Diane Sikora, I am a multimedia Journalism major. Working at the Clarion gives me a hands-on opportunity in multimedia journalism. I have been married for 39 years, (I married young), we have 2 children and 2 grandchildren whom I adore. During the pandemic, I realized it was the perfect opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream of going to college. It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. This is the beginning of a great adventure, and I love every minute of it all! 

Interests: Some of my interests include spending time with my grandchildren, tent camping, gardening, recycling, thrifting, photography, and Dayton area history. I enjoy going through old buildings at night searching for the paranormal with a group of friends. I am also the owner of 6 adorable rats. 

Creative Director

LeAnne McPherson

Major: Communications and English

Bio: Hello! ^-^ I am LeAnne Marie McPherson. I use She pronouns. I’m a 22-year-old who loves writing, my family, my long-term boyfriend Dakota, and my friends. I deeply care about the world around me and I think activism, voting, and staying informed are incredibly important things. I am disabled and am always fighting for improving the quality of life for our community.

Interests: Writing, video gaming, music, live streaming, internet culture, film, cartoons, comics, cosplay, general nerd culture, food, theater, alternative fashion, nature, and design.

Multimedia Specialist/Distribution/Podcast Host

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Jay Mazega

Major: Computer Information Systems/Software Development

Bio: Hi! My name is Joao Pedro, but everyone calls me Jay. I am 22 years old and was born and
raised in the country of Brazil. I moved to Ohio in 2020 and started working at the Clarion on
Spring of 2023. When I am not typing code and messing with wiring, I enjoy making music,
painting, and writing poetry. It seems fitting that my job here is essentially a mixture of my
interests!

Interests: Poetry; Music composition; Everything flower-related; A good day on the sunshine.

Staff Writer/ Project Manager

Carly Webster

Major: Liberal Arts 

Bio: Hi! My name is Carly (she/her). I graduated from Brookville High School in May 2021. I discovered The Clarion during my first semester at Sinclair’s Englewood campus, and the rest is history! I enjoy writing pieces on local arts and entertainment. Writing has always been a passion of mine and I’m glad I’m able to incorporate it into my college career. After finishing my degree, I plan to transfer and major in individualized or interdisciplinary studies. Thank you for supporting student media!

Interests: social/world issues, video games, books, films, concerts.

Staff Writer/Associate Editors

Ismael David Mujahid


Major: Creative Writing
Bio: I am a writer, photographer, poet, and traveler from Seattle currently living in Dayton. Throughout my life, I have had a passion for the written word and adventure. Those interests have helped drive my love for all things literary and spurred me to travel as far and as often as I can. Through the power of writing, I hope to share stories and experiences that inspire and educate others the way I continue to be. Backed by an ambition that has seen me explore the deepest corners of the human imagination and over 25 countries, I know I have what it takes to meet this challenge. 
Interests: books, travel, photography, gaming, miniatures, music, and culture!

Rylee Schaeffer

Major: History

Bio: Hello! My name is Rylee Schaeffer, I am studying History here at Sinclair. I plan on transferring to a four year university to complete my bachelor’s degree. I joined the Clarion to gain experience and to get more involved on campus.

Interests: reading, music, travel, and trying new things

Graphic Designers

Colin Kimuli

Major: Mechanical Engineering Technology

Bio: My name is Colin Kimuli. I am passionate about media, casual writing and amateur graphic design. Currently pursuing my degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology at Sinclair Community College. As a “writer” I am honing my skills and expanding my knowledge in various aspects of the media industry through working with the Clarion.

Interests: Cooking, binge watching series

Interns

Jaime Herzog

Major: Digital Marketing Analytics

Bio: Hello, my name is Jaime Herzog. I am a mother, dog mama, and plant enthusiast. I am currently completing two certificate programs at Sinclair before returning to Wright State University to complete my master’s in digital marketing Analytics. I have a BFA and own and operate several small businesses.

Interests: I love reading, writing, and all things outdoors. Most of the time my clothes are stained from painting or pottery.

Web Technicians

JoJo

Major: Computer information System / Software Development

Bio: Hi, my name is Jawad, but you can call me JoJo. I’m an international student here in the USA. My major is computer science/ software development. My future plans is to be a video game designer or developer. I’m a big fan of a lot of things and I love to try them. I manly focus on sport and playing video games like gymnastics, professional boxing, and all sorts of games.

Interests: sports, gaming, adventure, writing, traveling, music, cooking.

Liz Atkins

Major: Computer Science/Web Development

Bio: Hello! My name is Liz and I’m a Web Development student here at Sinclair. After I graduate, I plan on working as a web developer or a database developer. I am also interested in writing technical documentation. I decided to join the Clarion as a way to gain experience before I start my career. Some of my other hobbies are reading, playing video games, and traveling whenever I get the chance.

Interests: Reading, writing, travel, video games, and music

Advisor

Jessica Graue

Department: Journalism

Bio: “I started my journey at Sinclair Community College in 1999 as a student. I also played volleyball for the school. After I graduated with a degree in communication, I went to Wright State and received my bachelor’s degree in mass communication. After working for various newspapers, I went back to school and got my master’s degree in English Composition and Rhetoric and that’s when I began teaching and fell in love. After five years at Cox Media, I was offered my dream job as a journalism instructor and Clarion advisor. A few facts about me are I am a comedian, I have won five Associated Press awards, and I love to go to the casinos with my family.”

Interests: Reading, writing, performing comedy, eating good food, and helping out my students in any way I can!