I was selected as a 2026 White House Correspondents’ Association scholar representing Howard University. Before the night descended into chaos, it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life for all the right reasons. I had the opportunity to meet and connect with my inspirations in the industry and build friendships with fellow WHCA scholars.
When the shooting occurred during the dinner, a flood of emotions ran through my mind, most notably the realization that this may be a glimpse into the realities of my future as a journalist.
Madison Maynard, who grew up in Cleveland, is a junior at Howard University. This is an excerpt from her twice‑weekly radio show, “Time to Talk Politics with Madison Maynard,” on student-run WHBC, part of the Howard University Radio Network.
Maynard is also an anchor for the Spotlight Network’s Herd It All news broadcast at WHUT and a member of the Annenberg Honors Program. The Summer 2025 CNN Academy alumna wants a career in political reporting.
