STORRS, CT – Cheyenne Leeman, a 2016 graduate of the University of Connecticut’s Journalism program, returned to campus April 28 to speak with members of UConn’s Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) chapter.
Now a senior production coordinator at ESPN, Leeman emphasized how journalism ethics learned at UConn continue to shape her daily work covering the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and mixed martial arts.
“My role is as an air-traffic controller for UFC/MMA ESPN,” Leeman explained, describing the high-stakes coordination behind live sports broadcasts. She credited her student experiences — especially with UCTV and journalism classes — for laying the groundwork that led to her ESPN internship and full-time career.
“Get as much experience at UConn as you can,” she advised. “Real-life experience is what they’re looking for.”
Leeman highlighted the importance of treating colleagues and story subjects ethically, a lesson she said was deeply ingrained during her undergraduate years.
peaking to a room of aspiring journalists, including SPJ President Sara Bedigian and Vice President Dan Stark, she encouraged students to pursue hands-on opportunities while in school.
Following the event, Leeman joined SPJ members and other students for a photo and informal conversation.
