For Jaxy Cloud, Northwestern Oklahoma State University was never just a college, it was a legacy. The Seiling, Okla., native embraced her family’s legacy by enrolling at Northwestern and joining the Ranger Cheer team, just like her mother did before her.
“I never considered any other schools,” Cloud said. “I knew Northwestern was the choice for me.”
Her journey at Northwestern would become more than she imagined. During her time in the university’s Mass Communication program, Cloud found a passion for storytelling, media and public relations. She quickly found a professional in the field whom she admired, Lori Mahon.
Mahon is the founder and principal publicist of Merge Public Relations, a firm based in Franklin, Tenn. Established in 2011, the agency is deeply connected to the Christian entertainment world, representing musicians, non-profits, authors, and filmmakers who use their platform to inspire and inform the public.
“Lori was the one who inspired me to major in Mass Communications,” Cloud said. “It’s a full circle moment to be interning with her company.”
Now a sophomore, she will spend her summer interning at Merge Public Relations.
"A dream opportunity that feels surreal," Cloud said.
The internship which counts as college credit at Northwestern, also serves as a steppingstone into the world Cloud hopes to work in one day.
Her summer in Tennessee will be anything but a routine. From creating press releases to assisting with large scale events, each day will offer new experiences. One of the biggest highlights she is excited for is attending the prestigious K-LOVE Fan Awards, a weekend celebration of Christian music, film, and literature that brings together some of the most well-known names in the industry. Cloud will be attending the event with Elevation Worship, one of Merge PR’s clients.
Cloud is looking forward to getting a behind-the-scenes look at the development of a new Christian Museum set to open in downtown Nashville in fall 2025.
“The grand opening isn’t until September, so I’m hoping I’ll be able to go back for that event,” she said.
With the big city ahead, Cloud is expecting to bring back the skills she learns to impact campus. She is looking to benefit Northwestern’s Ranger Agency, a student-led program offering real-world experience in strategic communications.
“I’m thankful for the Mass Communication program at Northwestern,” Cloud said. “And I’m excited for this upcoming experience that will help me grow and prepare for what’s next.”