Viewpoints managing editor selected for New York Times Corps mentorship program

The Viewpoints multimedia campus newspaper continues to celebrate important accomplishments by its student staff.  

Recently, the paper learned that Managing Editor Marissa Lievanos is a newly named member of the New York Times Corps mentorship program. The program provides talent mentorship for college students across the country pursuing careers in journalism. 

Of 21 participants selected for the program, Lievanos was the only community college student chosen for the 2026-27 cohort.   

The sophomore is beginning her third semester with Viewpoints and will be paired with a Times journalist who will offer regular guidance until the completion of her undergraduate studies. Speaker sessions and learning opportunities will complement the mentorship. Students who complete the program may earn an opportunity to visit the Times’ newsroom in New York and meet journalists and fellow participants in person.  

“I’m so thrilled to be in this program and to have the opportunity to learn from some of the best in journalism as I learn to be the best journalist I can be,” said Lievanos, 19, a resident of Jurupa Valley.  

Earlier this semester, Viewpoints happily reported that Aaron Friesen, its ace investigative reporter, has been tapped as a new CalMatters College Journalism Network Fellow. Over the nine-month fellowship, Friesen will join a team of reporters to write impactful stories about California higher education while he continues writing for Viewpoints. CalMatters is a nonprofit news organization that works with various media partners and covers state politics and policies. 

“These are outstanding opportunities for Marissa and Aaron and our hard-working team is super proud of their accomplishments,” Associate Professor Angela Burrell said. “It just goes to show that studying journalism can lead to such rewarding experiences.” 

In addition to its monthly print editions, students and staff are encouraged to check out the newspaper at Viewpointsonline.org and on Instagram at @Viewpointsonline.