When it comes to pumping the bass in the “Marching 100,” 22-year-old Sean Blackmon keeps the beat driving forward while marching to “Our Florida,” the Florida A&M University fight song. Off the field though, he walks to a different beat, as editor-in-chief of the “Journey,” FAMU’s monthly editorial magazine. Either way Blackmon has the makings of a great leader.

His upbringing played a major role on his path to journalism.

“My main influence was the church,” Blackmon said. “I was able to express myself and speak freely.” His parents also played an essential role, always instilling in him an understanding of the importance of communication and speaking up for himself.

As the primary editor of a college-level magazine and having final responsibility for the operations and policies, Blackmon had no choice but to mature as a journalist.

“I would love to cover the African community and international concerns,” said Blackmon, a native of Pensacola, Fla. “There is not enough media coverage, and when there is, it’s primarily negative.”

His appreciation for the written word leads him to everything from XXL to The Source magazine to dynamic storytelling novels. Some of his most beloved books include “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Alex Haley, “Black Boy” by Richard Wright and “Stolen Legacy” by George G.M. James.

“I was very excited,” Blackmon said calmly about his acceptance into the New York Times Student Journalism Institute. His main goals at the Institute are sharpening his writing and editing skills. The highlight, he said, is “being able to work with seasoned journalists up close and personal, and utilize their talents.”

– Brandon Coley

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