Greg Pratt Stephanie Neufeld November 10, 2017
Nexus Newspaper stands out from student media across Canada, says its editor, Greg Pratt.
Pratt spoke with Digital Journalism students at Camosun’s Landsdowne Campus this morning. He says that Nexus has a reputation across Canada as a professional newspaper.
Nexus owes much of its reputation to Pratt, who brings to the newspaper over 20 years’ experience in the journalism business. The paper has only had three editors since they were established in 1990. Pratt is the third. A student editor works alongside Pratt, experiencing everything that he does, and giving input. By contrast, UVic’s student newspaper, the Martlett, employs one student as the editor. This editor keeps their position for up to two years before allowing another student to take a turn.
“These papers are constantly not getting their footing,” says Pratt. “I think that shows in the quality sometimes.”
Pratt’s previous experience working as a journalist for national publications means he is not afraid to tackle subjects that other student newspapers might not be comfortable with.
“There are no topics we won’t touch,” says Pratt.
“If it’s reasonable or rational we’re not gonna back away from it.”
Nexus has covered the topic of corruption in the Canadian Federation of Students, a subject many student newspapers might not feel comfortable tackling. But thanks to Pratt, Nexus is.
“I know if we’re gonna get sued or not,” says Pratt.
Pratt says that fairness is essential in journalism, as well as honesty.
“We don’t create controversy where there is no controversy.”
He says Nexus is a sort of “watchdog” for students. Pratt is not an employee of the college or the student society, and this allows the newspaper to report on topics around Camosun without fear of backlash.
“Nexus stories have a real, tangible impact,” says Pratt.
