Portrait image of Diego Pimentel-Villacana, ’25. Photo is available from South Salem High School’s 2025 yearbook, the Sword and Shield.
For the Class of 2025 at South Salem High School, senior Diego Pimentel-Villacana reflects on a year filled with connecting in the Clypian through writing and broadcast production. A member of the broadcast journalism and newspaper staff of The Clypian, Pimentel-Villacana has played a dynamic role in capturing the voices of the school community.
His journey to South Salem began with a personal decision to switch schools his senior year which he reflects on a positive note.
“Interesting enough and familiar, I changed schools to be and graduate where I wanted to be. I also had the opportunity to re encounter some familiar people that I hadn’t seen in a while and grow more as a person,
Pimentel-Villacana ‘25, said.
Tv Production and Clypian Writer
Pimentel-Villacana immersed himself in multiple aspects of media production, playing key roles in both writing and television. He is an on the floor newsroom director, and contributes articles to the digital and printed versions of The Clypian.
“I was a writer and a supervisor making sure everything goes well for shows such as Sit and Spill. I would also sometimes sub if people were not here on filming days,
Pimentel-Villacana ‘25, said.
Photography Inside and Out of the School
His media talents weren’t limited to the newsroom. He’s been behind the camera for yearbook photos, crafted posters in photography class, and even taken on freelance-style projects, assisting clients with visual content. His creative contributions made him a go-to for visual storytelling throughout South.
One of his favorite memories from working with The Clypian was the chance to go off-campus for reporting and photography.
“Being able to go to different schools around the area and the environment felt awesome. Also being able to get to know people more and reencounter people I haven’t seen from my school experiences in years!” said Pimentel-Villacana ‘25.
After Graduation
As graduation nears, Pimentel-Villacana is keeping his post-high school plans flexible, but he knows his future lies in media.
“My plans are likely continuing some sort of education, enough to get a job and a career that is somewhere in the media field,” he said.
His dedication, creative eye and willingness to step into leadership have made a lasting impact on South Salem’s student media.
