News Summary
Heidi and Kevin Gillen have made a notable contribution to the University of Mississippi’s journalism program by donating $50,000 to establish an endowment for experiential learning. This funding aims to help journalism students gain valuable internship experiences and attend important conferences. Part of a broader initiative, the endowment will support the newly established Mississippi Media Lab, led by Marshall Ramsey, focusing on enhancing student portfolios and fostering quality journalism. The school has also welcomed Andrea Hickerson as the new dean, emphasizing experiential learning integration in the curriculum.
Oxford, Mississippi — Heidi and Kevin Gillen, a couple from Lakewood Ranch, Florida, have made a significant contribution to the University of Mississippi’s journalism program by donating $50,000 to establish an endowment aimed at enhancing experiential learning opportunities for journalism students. This financial support is intended to provide students with the resources needed to pursue internships and attend important journalism conferences, thereby enriching their educational experience.
The establishment of this endowment is part of a broader initiative at the University of Mississippi, particularly within the School of Journalism and News Media, which has seen recent advancements, including the hiring of Marshall Ramsey as the inaugural director of the Mississippi Media Lab. Ramsey, an award-winning journalist and a two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist, is recognized for his contributions to Mississippi Today and his role as a host on Mississippi Public Broadcasting.
The objective of the Mississippi Media Lab is to create a connection between student-produced news content and established media outlets, which will not only enhance student portfolios but also provide valuable real-world experience. The lab will focus on gathering various forms of student-produced content, including editorials, long-form projects, podcasts, and government reports. The content may arise from coursework, independent studies, or internships, ensuring a well-rounded approach to journalism education.
Marshall Ramsey has stated that the Mississippi Media Lab plays a crucial role in addressing “news deserts” and highlights the importance of quality journalism as a pillar of democracy. His official tenure at Ole Miss will commence on April 28.
In addition to the Gillens’ donation and Ramsey’s appointment, the University of Mississippi School of Journalism has welcomed Andrea Hickerson as the new dean, effective July 1. Hickerson comes with a robust background in journalism education, having held various administrative roles and conducted extensive research in international journalism and media issues.
Hickerson’s vision for the journalism school emphasizes the significance of integrating experiential learning into the curriculum. She aims to prepare students for careers in an ever-evolving media landscape by developing a curriculum that merges skills classes with topical courses. This approach is intended to encourage students to engage critically with pressing societal issues, which is increasingly vital in today’s media environment.
Hickerson has also demonstrated a successful track record in securing external funding, having received over $1.6 million for projects focused on journalism and communication. This funding enables the school to expand its educational offerings and provide even greater opportunities for students.
The recent developments at the University of Mississippi’s School of Journalism and News Media, including the Gillens’ endowment, the establishment of the Mississippi Media Lab, and the appointment of a new dean, collectively represent a commitment to fostering a robust educational framework for aspiring journalists. These initiatives are designed to enhance the learning experience and equip students with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the journalism field, ultimately contributing to the future of journalism in the region and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- WTOK: Marshall Ramsey Tabbed Lead UMS Mississippi Media Lab
- Wikipedia: Journalism
- Magnolia Tribune: Curtis Wilkie
- Google Search: Mississippi journalism
- Oxford Eagle: Andrea Hickerson Joins Ole Miss
- Google Scholar: Mississippi journalism
- Garden & Gun: Southern Scene Oxford Mississippi
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi media
- WTVA: Ole Miss Awards Matt Laubhan with Journalism Award
- Google News: Ole Miss School of Journalism
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