UCF Journalism Student Joins Documentary Crew  

Nicholson Communication and Media student Raine Keenan contributes to legacy of Dylan Lyons through production 

By Emily Dougherty and Sultana Ali | October 30, 2024

Raine Keenan, a senior studying journalism, joined the Northern Light Productions team to produce a documentary about the story of UCF Nicholson Communication and Media alumnus, Dylan Lyons, who was tragically murdered while covering a story of a local homicide in 2023.  

Keenan participates in journalistic extracurriculars and says that being a part of this documentary was an opportunity to put her skills to work outside of the classroom in a meaningful way. 

“This semester, Professor Rick Brunson helped connect me with an opportunity to run the camera for the documentary,” Keenan says. “It’s great to obtain this experience as part of creating something so important.” 

She shared she found her love for storytelling through an unexpected pathway—music. 

“I was always a musician and didn’t see myself doing anything else,” Keenan says. “My father suggested journalism to me, and I found a connection between songwriting and journalism because of the storytelling aspect.” 

Keenan said the documentary was a meaningful experience, particularly working closely with the interviewees, Lyons’ family and close friends in his life.  

“Being on a personal level with interviewees helps to tell the story in a genuine way,” Keenan says. “One of my vivid memories was an interview with Jesse Walden, who referred to Dylan as his work best friend. He was injured on that tragic day and hearing his story was unbelievable. He is still working as a news photographer and it was moving to hear him talk about his passion for journalism.” 

Along with the heartfelt interviews she observed, she shared how she gained insight into a new perspective within journalism. 

“I also discovered the documentary side of journalism and what that looks like, such as taking time to get the right shot. The Northern Light Productions team was detailed in their approach, and it helped me understand that aspect of storytelling,” Keenan says. 

She hopes to pursue a career that intersects her love for storytelling with journalism and music. 

“I’m into radio and love editing audio. I like being able to listen to something and paint the picture in my head,” Keenan says. “I’d love to be out in the field creating broadcast stories.”

For fellow students who want to pursue journalism, Keenan says to take every opportunity that arises and put yourself out there.  

“I encourage fellow students to get involved with your school; I wouldn’t have the opportunities I’ve had if I didn’t get involved.” Keenan says.