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The Spark is the official blog of Alfred University, created to illuminate the dynamic experiences, creative achievements, and unique perspectives of our student community. The Spark captures the essence of what it means to be a Saxon. Whether you're a prospective student dreaming of your next chapter, or a current Saxon shaping your journey, let The Spark guide you.

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Storytelling with Fiat Lux, Alfred's Student Run Newspaper

Posted By Cameron Begue

Mar 27, 2026 | Clubs & Organizations Current Students General Blogs Liberal Arts & Sciences Pre-College

Social media has made everyone more connected on a global scale, but it has also made it harder to stay connected locally. The Fiat Lux newspaper helps students stay engaged with the Alfred community while also keeping up with national and international stories from the perspective of their fellow students.

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What Is Fiat Lux?

Fiat Lux is Alfred University’s campus newspaper, reporting on politics, local news, entertainment, and sports. The team of writers covers a diverse range of topics that interest them. Each club member pitches and writes one topical article for every monthly issue.

During the weekly meetings held in Alfred University’s Media Lab, members discuss stories happening on and off campus. Writing isn’t the only work done by Fiat Lux members—photography, illustrations, and creating newspaper games are all important parts of producing each issue.

Voices From the Team

Liza Shevchuk, Editor-in-Chief

“I love to help people, to push them a little bit. To help them find their topic, find their ideas, and give them an opportunity to do something.”

Liza has been a member of Fiat Lux for two years now. In her first year, she worked as a graphic designer while also writing monthly articles. Her passion led her to become the paper’s managing editor, where she designed the formatting for each issue. For the last year, Liza has served as editor-in-chief, where she leads weekly meetings, edits articles, formats the paper, and more. Most importantly, Liza helps guide the next generation of Alfred’s writers and journalists.

Hakan Karaaytu, Faculty Advisor

“If you find the 100 most famous journalists in history, 99 of them worked on their college’s newspaper.”

Hakan Karaaytu has been Fiat Lux’s faculty advisor since 2024. He earned his PhD in Journalism from Ohio University and previously worked as a journalist at CNN. Hakan sees Fiat Lux as a place where students can find and develop their skills in an environment surrounded by like‑minded peers. To him, Fiat Lux is just as important as any other newspaper in the country. Many major national news stories begin as investigations in college newsrooms, and as the newspaper’s advisor, Hakan mentors a class of the world’s next journalists.

Your Future at Fiat Lux

Fiat Lux Tabling — Members of Fiat Lux and advisor Hakan Karaaytu serving coffee and donuts to promote Fiat Lux's latest issue on the second floor of Powell Campus Center.

For many students, Fiat Lux offers the chance to see their words printed and published in ink for the first time. Members learn how to communicate their stories and interests while surrounded by people who want to do the same.

Meetings are held in the Media Lab located on the first floor of Powell Campus Center. For the most up‑to‑date information on meeting times, email [email protected]. To keep up with the club and stay informed about campus events, follow Fiat Lux on Instagram. When you're on campus, look for the latest issue at one of the newspaper’s stands found in most buildings.

If you’re looking for a way to discover Alfred University’s community, join Fiat Lux and become part of the next generation of writers and reporters.

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About the Writer

Meet Cameron

Cameron Begue is a junior at Alfred University from Long Island, New York, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Communication Studies. As a student writer for The Spark, Cameron highlights the unique community and culture at Alfred University. His interests include history, current events and physical media. He is a passionate writer and member of Alfred’s Fiat Lux newspaper, hoping to build a successful career in journalism. On the weekends, Cameron enjoys browsing local thrift stores and visiting friends across campus.

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