Southeast Mississippi Planner (SMP) Reporter, Roy Howard Community Journalism Center

Southeast Mississippi Planner (SMP) Reporter, Roy Howard Community Journalism Center

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Southeast Mississippi Planner (SMP) Reporter, Roy Howard Community Journalism Center.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary
The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center is seeking motivated high school and community college students to serve as Southeast Mississippi Planner (SMP) Reporters. SMP Reporters help maintain one of Mississippi’s most comprehensive community news and events calendars by researching, verifying, writing, and publishing civic information that connects residents with opportunities throughout Southeast Mississippi.

Working alongside professional journalists and university student leaders, SMP Reporters develop practical newsroom skills through community information reporting—the process of identifying, verifying, and publishing timely, accurate information that helps residents stay informed and engaged. Students gain hands-on experience in reporting, interviewing, AP-style writing, digital publishing, audience engagement, and community journalism while covering community events, government meetings, nonprofit organizations, educational opportunities, festivals, and other civic happenings.

This position is designed for high school juniors and seniors and community college students interested in journalism, communication, writing, public affairs, digital media, or related fields.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Research, verify, write, and publish community events and civic information for the Southeast Mississippi Planner.
• Contact organizations, government agencies, schools, businesses, and nonprofits to gather and confirm event information.
  
• Write clear, concise, and engaging stories following AP Style and RHCJC standards.
  
• Conduct interviews and background research when developing stories or expanded community coverage.
  
• Monitor community websites, agendas, newsletters, press releases, and social media to identify newsworthy events and updates.
• Capture photographs and basic video content when appropriate to enhance Planner coverage.
• Collaborate with professional staff and fellow student journalists to identify underserved communities and expand Planner coverage.
• Represent the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center professionally during community events and outreach activities.
• Participate in editorial meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
  
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Strong writing, grammar, spelling, and editing skills.
• Ability to research, organize, and verify information accurately.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to communicate professionally with community organizations and public officials.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and digital communication.
• Ability to learn new technology and newsroom software quickly.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and receptive to coaching and feedback.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team.
  

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.