By Cristina del Canto
Entergy is expanding its partnership with the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, or NAHJ, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the next generation of storytellers. During NAHJ’s annual conference held in New Orleans, Patty Riddlebarger, Entergy’s vice president of corporate social responsibility, met with students participating in the organization’s acclaimed Student Project program.
The NAHJ Student Project is a hands‑on newsroom experience designed for college journalism students who identify as Hispanic or Latino. Each year, selected students work one‑on‑one with seasoned professional journalists who mentor them as they report, write, shoot, edit, and produce news stories during the conference. The program gives students a real‑time taste of professional journalism, helping them strengthen their craft and build connections with mentors who support their growth long after the conference ends.
Riddlebarger — herself Latina and with a former journalism background — shared her personal journey and professional insights during a discussion with the students, emphasizing both the responsibility and the opportunity journalists have in shaping community narratives.
“As someone who started my career in journalism, I know how transformative it is to have people who believe in your voice,” said Riddlebarger. “Programs like the Student Project not only strengthen the skills of young reporters — they create a pathway for Hispanic journalists to tell the stories that matter to our communities. Entergy is honored to support that mission.”
Students engaged Riddlebarger with questions about corporate citizenship, community partnership, and the evolving relationship between companies and the media. She also highlighted Entergy’s broader commitment to education, equity and elevating underrepresented voices across the Gulf South.
Our partnership with NAHJ underscores our dedication to fostering opportunity and supporting the development of future leaders. By investing in initiatives like the Student Project, we continue to ensure that the next generation of Latino journalists enter the industry prepared, confident and connected.
View original content here.
