Makayla Morello, Editor-in-Chief
Makayla Morello is the Editor-in-Chief of The Free Press for the 2026–2027 academic year. A junior at the University of Southern Maine, Morello brings experience in communication and campus advocacy to the role, along with a strong passion for public-interest journalism. Originally from Westbrook, Maine, she has reported on topics ranging from local civic and community issues to higher education and emerging technology, always striving to approach stories with nuance and curiosity.
As Editor-in-Chief, Morello is committed to creating a newspaper that connects and reflects the diverse voices of the USM community. She hopes to expand student involvement in campus media, strengthen investigative reporting, and continue The Free Press’s mission of student-driven journalism that fosters meaningful dialogue both on and off campus.
Morello’s path into journalism began during her second year of college, when she joined The Free Press as a Staff Writer before advancing to News Editor. After discovering a passion for reporting and storytelling, she transitioned from studying Elementary Education to pursuing Media Studies. Outside of journalism, she holds a black belt in karate and enjoys tennis, reading, spending time in nature, and being with family and friends. She received a 2026 Maine Press Association Scholarship and USM’s Promise Scholar Emerging Student Leader Award.
