I am an accomplished journalism educator and multimedia editor based in Brooklyn, NYC. I hold a Master’s Degree in Engagement Journalism from the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism and a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from Temple University.
With extensive experience teaching at Rutgers University, The City University of New York, and others, I have developed expertise in curriculum creation and delivery, focusing on engagement journalism to better serve marginalized communities. I also specialize in teaching and training high school students interested in journalism.
In my recent project-based editing roles, I’ve worked with Community Info Corp and THE CITY, where I have collaborated on projects like MISSING THEM, which memorializes New Yorkers who died from COVID-19, and edited service journalism pieces about food insecurity in Essex County, New Jersey.
I have a strong background in managing journalism programs, planning events, and serving on diversity committees to promote inclusive practices. My reporting experience spans various media outlets, including Technical.ly Media, Broad Street Media, and the South Jersey Times, where I covered breaking news, features, and community events. I am conversational in Spanish, and am also skilled in Adobe Suite, project management, and event coordination.
My career reflects a commitment to fostering community engagement through impactful journalism and education.
Melissa DiPento 