by Ella Smith, Student Public Relations Writer
As a middle school student sitting in her first journalism class in Bartlett, Illinois, Isabella Agnello was captivated — not by breaking news or front-page headlines, but by the power of genuine storytelling. Years later, that passion led her to an internship with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, where she used social media to share faith-driven stories.
Now, as a junior majoring in journalism at Cedarville University, Agnello serves as a production social media intern for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Society. In this role, she blends her love for storytelling with her deep-rooted faith.
"I have always loved telling people’s stories,” said Agnello. “Even visually, through reels and stories, there is this element of storytelling in social media.”
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association had been a significant influence in Agnello’s life long before she considered working there.
“I’ve always loved Billy Graham. I grew up listening to his sermons. One year in high school, I listened to one almost every day,” said Agnello. “The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and their work has always been dear to my heart.”
Agnello credits her classes and experiences working for “Cedars,” Cedarville’s student newspaper, for preparing her for the internship — and potential career in journalism.
“My experiences at Cedarville prepared me to be teachable, to learn from my mistakes and to be honest with my questions,” said Agnello. “It also taught me how to work in a team and rely on other people.”
The internship also confirmed Agnello’s desire to work in a ministry or nonprofit organization.
“I entered college wanting to do things with news and politics, but slowly, the Lord’s been bringing me back to what He’s always placed on my heart — telling people’s stories in a ministry or nonprofit context,” said Agnello. “This internship solidified that this is the kind of place I want to work.”
Looking to the future, Agnello is excited to pursue a career in journalism using the new social media and video production skills she has developed. She hopes to work in a nonprofit setting where she can continue telling Gospel-driven stories.
“I want to serve and love people well, whether that’s working in a ministry or just faithfully telling the stories of everyday people,” said Agnello
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.
