Here to Stay. The Mountain Echo and Horseshoe staffs traveled to Columbia University in March of 2023 for a journalism convention. Students from all over the country traversed the campus and were able to view historic buildings, such as the Library of Columbia University.
Here to Stay
Mountain Echo Staffers share what journalism means to them over the course of Scholastic Journalism week.
More to Discover
About the Contributors
Madison Aboud, Editor – in – Chief
My name is Madison Aboud, and this is my fourth year on the Mountain Echo staff. I am honored to serve as Editor in Chief for the 2025 – 2026 school year. In 2023, I did an Editorial Leadership training through CSPA (Columbia Scholastic Press Association). In July 2024, I served as a National Youth Correspondent for the Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC) at George Mason University. When I’m not focused on the Mountain Echo, you can find me reading, spending time with friends and family or hanging out with my dogs. After I graduate, I plan to major in English and minor in Communications. My goal this year is to represent our student body accurately and fairly.
Charlie Kephart, Editor in Chief
Hey! During my third year on staff, my senior year, I have taken on the role of being Editor in Chief for Mountain Echo. My sophomore and junior year, I served as associate editor. Outside of school I enjoy hanging out with my best friend, exercising, watching Netflix, photography and working as a lifeguard and teaching swim lessons at the YMCA. After high school I plan to pursue a medical path, with the intent of being a nurse practitioner. I’m looking forward to this school year and seeing what it brings our way!
Miley Naugle, Reporter
My name is Miley Naugle, I am a 10th grade reporter on the AAHS Mountain Echo. This is my second year on the staff and my third year as a reporter. My favorite thing to do as a part of the staff, was take photos. I started writing on the Livewire staff in 8th grade. I love to take photos and write sports stories. I also like to run, I have been running since 7th grade. I run Cross Country and long distance for Track. I am part of the Student Council and I am also in chorus. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my friends and spending time with my little sister.
Ash Carini, Reporter
Hey! I’m Ash! This is my second year on staff. My interests are photography, music, running, and drawing. My biggest goal for after I graduate is going to the Air Force. Besides being involved with Mountain Echo, I am a distance runner on the track team, I do silks, I am on the yearbook staff and I am in student council. I am excited to be on the Mountain Echo staff this year,and I can’t wait to see what it brings me to:)
Olivia McMinn, Reporter
My name is Olivia McMinn, and I’m a senior here at AAHS. This is my second year writing for the Mountain Echo; however, this year I am also the editor in chief of the Horseshoe yearbook. I am excited for both opportunities this year because I enjoy writing, working on new ideas and helping others. Outside my academic life, I am also a member of the track and tennis teams. In my free time, when I’m not playing tennis, you can find me with my dog, a good book and a large cup of coffee.