Freshman class president Ashleigh Ewald ’25 recently launched and is hosting “The Stormy Petrel Times,” a new podcast devoted to helping Oglethorpe students feel connected and informed.
Ashleigh Ewald ’25
Named after OU’s mascot, The Stormy Petrel Times will offer weekly content, including the latest campus news and interviews with students, faculty, and staff who are making a difference on campus.
A trailer episode was released in early January and the first episode, featuring Leron Burge, director of student involvement and SGA advisor, was released on Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Anchor. Follow the podcast’s Instagram to know when new episodes are released each week.
“I know there are many people on campus who have great stories, and they aren’t afraid to speak up,” Ewald said. “I believe everyone’s story is important because each story adds something to the community.”
As a member of the Student Government Association (SGA), Ewald says she was inspired to create the new communications channel to help students feel part of the larger campus community. She also understands the value of the media in representing community concerns and advocating for change. Ewald, who was also involved with SGA at Wheeler High School, says that “working with a strong student body is what teaches you leadership, patience, and about politics at a local level.”
An aspiring United States Senator and motivational speaker, Ewald is a politics and economics double major. In addition to her SGA involvement, she serves as Economics Club Treasurer, is a member of the President’s Emerging Leaders Program, and is involved in the Paul Hackett Learning and Living Program. A published writer, Ewald is a contributor for VOX ATL, a youth development nonprofit communications organization.
Already proving herself to be a self-motivated, focused student-leader on campus, Ewald admits she’s had to learn to “slow down and [not] rush things because some of the best opportunities come on their own.”
“Persistence is important. Don’t ever allow someone else to make you feel like being overly determined and driven is a bad thing. There’s a small portion of people who truly finish their goals, so don’t stop halfway.”
