Share this Story
Virginia Press Women Foundation Awards Agnes Cooke Scholarship to VWU Junior
Marlin Chronicle Editor aims to amplify voices, telling stories that evoke positive change
University News | July 3, 2024
Virginia Wesleyan University media and communication major Lily Reslink has been named the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Agnes Cooke Scholarship by the Virginia Press Women Foundation. This recognition not only highlights her academic and professional dedication but also propels her further into the world of journalism and communication with a $2,000 scholarship to aid her education expenses and a student membership in Virginia Professional Communicators (VPC). Additionally, Reslink has received an invitation to attend the VPC’s spring conference in 2025. 
Reslink, a dedicated student and aspiring journalist, expressed her career aspirations in her scholarship application. “I aim to pursue news journalism, whether it be print or online. Whatever sector that I land in, it is important to me that I am able to write. I believe in the power of amplifying voices, telling stories that matter and evoking positive change.”
Her journey in journalism took a significant step forward when, as a sophomore, she served as the news editor for Virginia Wesleyan’s newspaper, The Marlin Chronicle. This role, she said, deepened her commitment to storytelling and effective communication. “I will be proud to continue these pursuits in Spring 2025 when I step into the Editor-in-Chief position upon returning from my fall semester abroad in Seoul, South Korea.”
In a news release issued by the Virginia Press Women Foundation, Reslink shared her gratitude and excitement: “Journalism has called me to so many important milestones and passions, serving as the foundation for much of my personal and professional growth. I feel beyond thankful to receive this level of recognition for the work I have dedicated to the craft thus far. I am excited to continue down the path it leads me down.”
The Agnes Cooke Memorial Scholarship honors Agnes Cooke, a charter member of Virginia Press Women, now known as Virginia Professional Communicators, founded in 1958. Cooke, who lived in Kinsale, served as VPW president from 1964 to 1966 and was renowned for her journalism, including a notable photograph of the Kinsale Methodist Church fire. Her legacy lives on through this scholarship, which supports outstanding college students pursuing careers in journalism, public relations, and related fields.
As Lily Reslink prepares for her semester in Seoul and her upcoming role as Editor-in-Chief, the Marlin community celebrates her achievements and looks forward to her future contributions to journalism.