Meet the Fellows: Jayson Chesler

July 14, 2015 News21 Fellow

Jayson Chesler snaps a photo in the University of Arizona's College of Medicine where researchers in the pharmacology department examine medical benefits of cannabidiol. (Photo by Alexa Ard/News21) — Jayson Chesler snaps a photo in the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine where researchers in the pharmacology department examine medical benefits of cannabidiol. (Photo by Alexa Ard/News21)

NAME: Jayson Chesler, Reynolds Fellow

SCHOOL: Arizona State University, senior

BEFORE NEWS21: I am the executive editor of the Downtown Devil, a publication that covers downtown Phoenix and a national finalist in the Society of Professional Journalists Mark of Excellence Awards’ “Best Independent Online Student Publication” category. I’ve interned at Gannett, KTVK 3TV and ESPN Radio Phoenix and worked on the Pac-12’s digital coverage and NFL on Fox. Some of my work has looked at the intersection of sports and social identity, a topic that particularly interests me.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON? I’m investigating the benefits and pitfalls of federally approved marijuana research, Washington state’s transition from medical marijuana to a more heavily regulated recreational marijuana system and marijuana in Arizona.

FUN FACT: I have a passion for competitive video games. They come pretty naturally for someone like me with infinitely more competitive drive than athletic ability.

CONNECT WITH ME: @JayChesler on Twitter.