Experiential learning program introducing undergraduates from the University of Rhode Island, Brown University, and the Community College of Rhode Island, to reporting on science with local communities.

The Open Newsroom is a 12-week summer fellowship introducing STEAM majors at colleges and universities across Rhode Island to the world of science journalism. Through this program, undergraduates develop a deep understanding of scientific issues happening across the state, reporting on topics of their choice for a community to which they belong or care most about. 

In its second year, the program will support the following fellows: 

Leah Grant, Rising Junior, Community College of Rhode Island

Leah is deeply interested in neuroscience, epigenetics, and the power of science storytelling. She plans to transfer to a four-year school to complete her biology degree and continue exploring how science can deepen our understanding of health, environment, and human development. Leah is especially drawn to epigenetics because it shows how life experiences, stress, and environment can shape health in ways that are both deeply personal and far-reaching. Leah is passionate about using journalism to bridge the gap between scientific research and Black communities, whose experiences and needs are too often overlooked or underserved. She hopes to make science more accessible, meaningful, and connected to everyday life for her community.

Joseph Ramos, Rising Junior, University of Rhode Island

Joseph Ramos II grew up in the Northeast with a love for exploration and an active lifestyle that shaped his decision to study exercise science close to home at the University of Rhode Island. Throughout his education, he has developed a growing curiosity of holistic-wellbeing and medicine. His experiences as an international medical volunteer and working in a nursing home have given him insight into the practical applications of health and longevity. At URI, Joseph is a proactive member of club tennis, serves as an anatomy & physiology lab teaching assistant, and conducts continuing research on occupational stressors affecting cardiovascular physiology with Dr. DeBlois. With deep Azorean roots, he hopes to gain a broader cultural perspective on the social determinants of health impacting southern New England through the Open Newsroom.

Hadassah Rigby, Rising Senior, University of Rhode Island

Hadassah is a senior Marine Biology and Professional & Public Writing double major. She has previously done research and is passionate about scientific literacy and communication. She’s extremely excited to join the Open Newsroom and connect with the Rhode Island community!

Sidra Tanbakji, Rising Senior, University of Rhode Island

Sidra is a Public Health student at the University of Rhode Island with a strong interest in science communication, health equity and community outreach. As an Open Newsroom fellow this summer, she is excited to help translate complex scientific and public health topics into accessible stories for broader audiences. Sidra also serves as a resident assistant at URI and is passionate about making health information more understandable and impactful for communities. 

Ben Underwood, Rising Senior, Brown University 

Ben is a rising senior at Brown University from Killen, Alabama, majoring in Nonfiction Writing and Environmental Studies. He plans to pursue a career in journalism, environmental law, or both.

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“The Open Newsroom made me know a lot more of my surroundings, and different communities, what they’re facing,” said Jezell Green, a 2025 Open Newsroom Fellow. “It just gave me a more positive outlook on things and to look beyond what I am seeing in front of me; to do more research into what I’m reading.”

The Open Newsroom is organized by RI-NEST, a statewide program supporting research funded through the U.S. National Science Foundation,  and the University of Rhode Island’s Metcalf Institute. 

For more information or to view past student portfolios, visit The Open Newsroom homepage or its newly published Substack. 

Rhode Island’s research community, local journalists and any other members of the interested public are welcome to  join The Open Newsroom for Portfolio Pitch Night on June 16 and the Community Conversation Night on August 14. Details at the webpage above.