Manheim Central rising junior Hailey Dougherty got a firsthand look at journalism in action this summer when she represented Manheim as a National Youth Correspondent to the 2025 Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC) at George Mason University in Virginia.

Hailey, who is the daughter of Jason and Krystal Dougherty of Manheim, attended the conference from July 7 to 12. Participants were nominated or invited to attend, and while Hailey is unsure who nominated her, she received her invitation in January.

"I was one of 575 in the country in attendance," she said. Knowing the conference was expensive to attend, Hailey was determined to make it work, so when she discovered scholarships were available, she applied.

"Originally I was just going to apply for the one that gave you some of the tuition, but I saw that there was a scholarship to honor the woman who created the program, Amy Takayama-Perez," Hailey recalled. "I spent a few hours researching who she was and her legacy, and I then decided I wanted to apply. I remember reading the prompt (include any events, experiences or people who inspired your passions), and my mind went straight to my previous assistant principal, who is now the supervisor of special education at Manheim Central, Ms. Keisha McCauley. She has always encouraged me to use my gift of writing, so I found it fitting to write about her."

To her surprise, Hailey was awarded one of four scholarships to attend the conference.

"I was so happy and grateful," she shared. "It gave me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. ... It was a priceless gift to me and also my family."

At George Mason, Hailey spent the week engaging in a variety of activities.

"WJMC was one of the best opportunities I've ever been part of, bringing together inspiring speakers, thought-provoking simulations and unforgettable experiences," she said. "I heard Savannah Behrmann speak on the importance of journalism, reporting truth, asking 'why' questions and separating emotions from the job, followed by Washington Scholars Program director Elena Johnson."

Highlights included a First Amendment simulation on censorship, where Hailey argued against suppressing a story, and a talk by photographer Meghan A.T.B. Reese, who emphasized honesty, bias-free photography, mentorship and appreciation. Hailey also enjoyed a presentation by Andrias White Murdaugh, who inspired the students to be confident, create opportunities and be a loud voice in a quiet room.

"We visited the MLK, Lincoln and WWII memorials; explored the Library of Congress; and heard from freelance photojournalist Anna Layden on being present, valuing safety and documenting communities; and Gillian Rose Brassil on engaging locally and the interconnectedness of journalism," Hailey recalled. "A story-pitching simulation, a visit to the National Press Club and the honor of receiving the Amy Takayama-Perez Memorial Scholarship were followed by speeches from Sasha Ingber on resilience and honesty, Bryan West on authenticity and Patrick Money on pursuing genuine passions."

The week concluded with a meeting at Sen. Fetterman's office to discuss environmental, economic and women's rights issues; a final emotional group meeting; and a closing video, Hailey shared.

"Many speakers stressed mental health, community and using your voice, and I left with new skills and mentors," she stated, noting that she was especially inspired by her faculty adviser.

Although Hailey isn't planning on becoming a journalist, she still felt the conference offered an invaluable experience.

"I wanted to attend this conference to get a better understanding of the world around me. I knew that I wanted to do something with writing; I just didn't know all of my options and that there were so many," she said. "I don't necessarily want a career in journalism, but I do want people's voices and opinions to be heard. I plan to become a teacher and also do something with writing in my free time."

At Manheim Central, Hailey is active in a variety of groups and clubs. She participates in marching band, concert band, chorus and the Inclusion and Diversity Club. She's the co-founder of The Common Club, the secretary for the Class of 2027 and part of the fundraising committee for her grade. In her free time, she enjoys writing, spending time with friends and family, listening to music, shopping and seeing live concerts.

She's close to her two older brothers and older sister and their families, and she loves hanging out with her dog, Thor, and her cat, Garfield.

"My family is very important to me, and they are my biggest cheerleaders. We are each other's cheerleaders," she said. "At a young age, my parents stressed to me how important it was to be present for each other's highs and lows in life. ... My mom and dad are the best parents I could ask for. They are strong, resilient and the people to always show up. ... They have always encouraged me to reach for the stars and never settle for less."

She hopes her peers will consider attending events like the conference if they are given the opportunity.

"Take the chance," she said. "It can seem intimidating at first, but if you don't take the step, you will never know. Fear is normal. It's a natural part of stepping out of your comfort zone. It just means you're pushing yourself towards something meaningful."