As we approach the end of 2016, let’s reflect on the many changes that have occurred in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications throughout the year.
The final word is in; and, for the sixth time since 1968, the program has received accreditation from the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC).
In June, Dr. Bob Lochte retired from his post as Chair of the department, fulfilling nearly three decades of teaching, service and leadership at Murray State.
I accepted the responsibility of serving as interim Chair after serving for 15 years in the department.
Another longstanding JMC faculty member, Joe Hedges, began his transition into retirement. JMC alum Stephanie Elder Anderson assumed the role of adviser to The Murray State News while a faculty search was initiated to permanently fill the slot.
Additionally, Dr. Tim Vance joined the faculty as an assistant professor.
Among our outstanding faculty, Dr. Melony Shemberger was elected to the national board of directors of Phi Kappa Phi; she also served as the MSU Chapter vice president.
Dr. Marcie Hinton was appointed coordinator of the master’s degree program.
Dr. Bellarmine Ezumah was designated a Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow and has received the AJB-COB Dean’s Award for Notable Accomplishments.
Facilities upgrades included several software acquisitions for classrooms and media labs. Television students welcomed new studio equipment, including a digital switcher and audio board, cameras and digital software updates as well, thanks to monies received from the City of Murray Cable Commission and JMC supporters like you.
The Murray State News’s editorial staff expanded its digital productions for thenews.org. Take some time to peruse the revamped website. Also, see our graduate program’s new website.
JMC students continuously garner honors such as being inducted into Who’s Who Among Students, Kappa Tau Alpha and Phi Kappa Phi, just to name a few. They have embraced opportunities to extend their academic experiences through study abroad programs and competitive internships.
The campus clubs have been teeming with JMC students, who honed their communications media skills with every volunteer activity they completed.
So, what does the future hold for JMC? Of course, both our faculty and staff intend to keep doing what we do best – provide our students with experiences designed help them succeed in their careers; foster within our students the willingness to contribute to their own communities as well as expand their global awareness; also, encourage JMC faculty and staff to continue to develop a solid curriculum that challenges and inspires students.
I am certain that as a Murray State University alum, you’ve realized the importance of obtaining a quality education in order to secure long-term security.
As a JMC graduate, you know the value of earning a degree which ultimately has helped you remain competitive in an ever-changing workforce.
In 2017, The Murray State News will celebrate its 90th year anniversary.
We will appreciate getting your support for our efforts to grow in the Murray State tradition of excellence.
Your generous contributions to the JMC Foundation account will support student activities and learning opportunities as well as enhance the department’s ability to meet numerous financial challenges.
I look forward to working with all our students, faculty and alumni. Thank you for supporting our team.
Enjoy prosperity and good health in the New Year!
Debbie Owens
interim chair
