Letter from the President

When I was a Gaylord College student, sometime between 2006-2010, I was assigned to read a book called The Elements of Journalism by Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel. This book taught me a lot about the news industry and the profession of journalism and the difference between the two. As stated in the book, “News is newly received or noteworthy information, especially about recent or important events. While the purpose of journalism “is to provide citizens with the information they need to make the best possible decisions about their lives, their communities, their societies, and their governments.”

With all the talk about fake news and alternative facts, good journalism and journalists are more important to our society today than ever before. Luckily OU and Gaylord College are not giving up on an industry that can sometimes feel like a circus. Gaylord College is thriving.

Gaylord College cultivates storytellers, thinkers, creators and innovators, using their degrees from a college that provides endless professional opportunities in dynamic industries around the world. They have the ability to produce news and information delivered on multiple platforms.

From one alum to another, I challenge you. Think about one way in which you can help current students in this industry. Be a mentor, provide an internship, let a student shadow you, inquire about teaching an adjunct class, be a guest speaker, deliver an admission box to a prospective journalism student, write a note of encouragement, etc. Whatever you can contribute, please do that. While the ideas above are non-monetary ways in which to give back, monetary contributions are always welcome.

Our graduates leave their university armed with practical knowledge, ethical principles and a sense of integrity that is the bedrock of journalism. The future of journalism looks challenging, all the more reason to support your fellow graduates. 

Hannah Rieger, M.Ed
Class of 2010