LEXINGTON, Va. – A group of cadets and student-journalists from the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) recently returned from Washington, D.C., where they covered President Donald Trump’s Inauguration.
“This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said VMI cadet Richie O’Connell.
O’Connell and fellow cadet Adam Cioffi were among seven student-journalists from VMI’s newspaper, The Cadet, who attended the historic inaugural events. The students’ trip was made possible through donations from VMI alumni.
“Although we’re a small publication, we work very hard, and we make sure that people know that,” O’Connell said.
Cioffi reflected on the significance of the moment. “It was the papers that get seen all around the world—we were right next to them. It was a sense of accomplishment,” he said.
O’Connell was the only student able to attend the inauguration, however, all seven were able to attend the Victory Rally and Inaugural Ball, where they saw high-profile figures.
“It was absolutely surreal going to the Victory Rally,” Cioffi shared. “Seeing characters like Elon Musk, Donald Trump, and his family, it was really incredible seeing like these huge influential figures in person and obviously, pretty up-close.”
“We were breathing the same air as, you know, celebrities, as future leaders, as royalty from other nations,” Cioffi added. “It was really like the two degrees of separation.”
The cadets said the event showcased a diverse cross-section of America. They also witnessed supporters and protesters converging in our nation’s capital.
“It was all types of people: poor, rich, working class, white-collar,” said Cioffi.
Both cadets expressed gratitude for the experience.
“We were very lucky to be able to go in and to experience that and witness history,” O’Connell said. “I don’t think I’ll ever be able to do something like this again. And I wouldn’t be able to do it without The Cadet Foundation, The Cadet newspaper and donations made by various alumni. Very blessed to have this experience.”
Their firsthand coverage of the inauguration will be featured in the next issue of The Cadet.