From FAMU to CBS: Senior Jonathan Charles Turns Curiosity into a Rising Journalism Career
At a time when representation and accurate storytelling are increasingly vital, Florida A&M University (FAMU) student journalist Jonathan Charles is emerging as one of the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication’s (SJGC) rising voices. His work, now published nationally through KFF, formerly known as The Kaiser Family Foundation, reflects his commitment to serving communities and sharpening his craft in the SJGC.
KFF is regarded as the leading health policy organization in the United States. The nonprofit has a nationwide presence and “serves as an independent source of information on national health issues.”
Charles, a Haitian American, first-generation third year college student from Broward County, Florida, arrived at FAMU with a growing interest in TV production. As a freshman, he balanced his time on the University’s track & field team with academics and his creative interests, while he searched for a place where storytelling made sense.
He quickly immersed himself in the SJGC and worked as a digital media specialist for the school. He later joined several student publications, including Journey Magazine, The FAMUAN and 90.5, the University’s student-operated radio station.
“Working in those spaces helped me understand the industry and sharpen my skills,” Charles said. “Every environment pushed me to grow in a different direction.”
That growth culminated into his biggest accomplishment to date: being selected for the inaugural MIT Knight Science Journalism HBCU Fellowship. During the fellowship, Charles developed a story with KFF Health News on mold growth in homes after natural disasters. KFF frequently partners with national media organizations to widen its reach, and within days, CBS News distributed Charles’ story nationally, giving him his first national byline while also exposing his reporting to a broader audience.
“When I found out CBS was running the story, my mind was blown,” he said. “I literally Googled my name and saw it pop up. That moment made me feel like I’d found my niche.”
SJGC Professor Clarence Fowler, who taught Charles in visual storytelling courses, said his growth has been consistent and intentional.
“Jonathan’s story being picked up by CBS is exciting to see,” Fowler said. “I’ve watched his growth through visual storytelling and Journey Magazine. His news judgement and ability to communicate ideas clearly in his work have really developed during his time at FAMU.”
Fowler credits Charles’ artistic discipline and work ethic as major contributors to his success.
“When he’s locked into a story, he puts everything into it,” Fowler said. “He goes the extra mile to separate his work from what the average student might produce, and you can see that not only in his personal projects but also during his time as a digital content creator for the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.”
Outside of traditional reporting, Charles continues to build his personal brand as a creator. He produces photography and videography projects, and he is also preparing to launch a personal portfolio website.
Jonathan’s mentor, 2024 FAMU SJGC graduate Zoe Hightower, has witnessed his evolution firsthand.
“When I first met Jonathan, he was just a very curious individual trying to share stories,” Hightower said. “Now he’s stretched himself across written journalism, visual storytelling, and content creation. He doesn’t limit himself to one medium, and that’s what makes him stand out.”
Hightower described Charles’ creative process as “organized chaos,” a system that only makes sense once the final result is in front of you.
“He refines all these ideas in his head into something authentic and accurate,” she said. “I love watching him create… he always brings it together in a way that captures people on both local and national levels.”
As Charles prepares for his expected graduation in Fall 2026, he feels more excited than anxious. He plans to continue developing his experience through internships and is considering furthering his education by seeking an advanced degree.
Charles said he also hopes to continue blending science and storytelling in ways that challenge traditional reporting. He sees journalism as a tool to illuminate overlooked issues and make complex ideas feel human.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
