This summer, Relevant Radio welcomed three remarkable interns who brought energy, skill, and enthusiasm to our mission of bringing Christ to the world through the media. Their contributions are great reminders that Relevant Radio is always working towards the future, forming leaders and innovators who will continue advancing Catholic media for years to come.
Lily Williams experienced a wide-ranging internship, rotating through Programming, Marketing, Mission/HR/Finance, and Advancement. This unique structure gave her an inside look at how our network functions across departments. In Marketing, Lily trained in creating images for The Saints series, learning how campaigns are designed and executed to reach and inspire listeners. Her curiosity and adaptability made her an asset wherever she was placed, and her time at Relevant Radio gave her a broad perspective on how Catholic media is built and shared.
Madeline Denk quickly became an integral member of our Advancement Team. Her enthusiasm, attention to detail, and ability to work ahead of deadlines allowed the team to serve major donors with excellence. From preparing personal acknowledgement letters for each major gift, to coordinating outreach in Raiser’s Edge, Madeline consistently strengthened our stewardship efforts. She also played a vital role in preparing for our 25th Anniversary Gala, attending planning meetings, sharing ideas with our marketing team, and keeping files organized. Madeline even coordinated VIP events and built strong connections with our partners—leaving such a mark that even the staff at Federal Express still ask about her! She also brought her joyful spirit to our pledge drive, taking calls and sharing her faith with those who needed encouragement.
Fr. Paul Juma Makhandia, a visiting priest from Kenya, brought a global perspective to our work during his communications internship. A student at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, Fr. Paul spent a month in Lincolnshire learning about our operations, particularly in marketing and programming. One of nine children, fluent in several languages, and passionate about music, he was eager to engage with all aspects of our mission. He participated in our Days of Formation, where leaders spoke on topics such as finance and health, and offered insights from his own pastoral and cultural experiences. His presence enriched our team and reminded us of the universal reach of Catholic media.
As we reflect on their time here, we are deeply grateful for the gifts Lily, Madeline, and Fr. Paul shared with us. Their energy, creativity, and commitment to the mission of Relevant Radio give us great hope. With young leaders like them, the future of Catholic media is in good hands.