The stories, staffers and deadlines have changed over the recent years for Millard West’s journalism program, but one thing in Room 312 has always stayed the same: the man at its core, journalism adviser Mark Hilburn.

After more than 16 years leading The Catalyst, MWHS Wildcat News, Prowler yearbook, Uproar Radio, Wildcat Sports Network live streaming and Introduction to Journalism classes, Hilburn is stepping away from the adviser role to fill the role of assistant principal Mark Hawkins who is retiring following the 2024-25 school year.

“Throughout my time at West I’ve had a variety of leadership roles which really led me to administration,” Hilburn said. “For the past four years, I’ve served as the sophomore Administrative Intern, the last two years as building staff development facilitator and MTSS-B team member, testing administrative team, and also School Improvement Team and Site Planning, building technology facilitator, PBiS, Social Engagement Committee, Data Teams, Advisement Team planning, Check and Connect mentor, PLC leader, Senior Class Board sponsor and more. During the 2019-2020 school year I applied and was accepted into the Millard Leadership Academy and obtained my administrative certificate that same year.”

Since taking over the yearbook opening in 2009, Hilburn built all three publications into widely recognized operations by mentoring students to state-winning written and broadcasted pieces of work. For many students, current and former, Room 312 became more than a workspace- it was a place where they were taught a college-level education for free.

“Hilburn gave me a very strong education in journalism over my four years at Millard West,” former student Logan Moseley said. “When talking with some of the people that graduated before me, and my own personal experiences, Hilburn gave all of us near a college-level education, while allowing us to explore our own interests. I always knew I wanted to do something in sports journalism, but thanks to Hilburn’s style of teaching, I was able to find joy in writing and reporting, along with learning photography, videography and graphic design. All things I had no clue on when I walked through 312 as a freshman.”

Though his departure marks the end of an era, the program won’t be fading out of existence. Two new advisers will take the reins in the fall and split duties between all journalism related courses and the live streaming network; All with high profiles for being some of the best in the state at what they create.

“It is challenging to follow in Mr. Hilburn’s footsteps,” future adviser Amy Opitz said.” He is one of the best advisers I’ve ever seen. Next year, I hope to maintain his standards of excellence while continuing to help students learn valuable skills they will need to thrive in the future. To say that I am thrilled is an understatement.”

As Hilburn prepares to shift from advising to administration, school leaders say his work in Room 312 speaks for itself. From building an award-winning program to mentoring students with level-headed opinions, his time leading the journalism programs has shown the kind of leadership qualities that could translate well into his new role.

“His strengths and approach are a great match for what Millard West needs in an assistant principal,” Principal Greg Tiemann said. “At the core, he is caring, competent, and committed—three essential qualities that positively impact both students and staff. He brings strong organizational skills and a service-minded approach, consistently putting the needs of others first. His time as an Administrative Intern has equipped him with valuable experience in student discipline, and I’m confident he will approach those situations with fairness and consistency. Additionally, his work with professional development shows his commitment to helping teachers grow.”

Even as Room 312 enters a new chapter, the foundation Hilburn has laid out- one of high standards, student voice, and journalistic integrity- will continue to shape the award-winning stories that come out of it for years to come.