Kean Professor Attends International Radio and Television Society Seminars

Professor Kristine Mirrer, Ph.D., of the School of Communication, Media and Journalism was one of approximately 25 scholars invited by the International Radio and Television Society (IRTS) to attend a series of faculty seminars focused on freedom of the press and journalism in changing times.

“The best part of the experience for me was the way IRTS was able to connect the classroom with the television and digital news industries,” said Mirrer. “Direct communication between media scholars and industry professionals is rare and one of the most valuable exchanges that I have experienced.” 

Mirrer and her fellow educators met with key industry practitioners and policy-makers at the event including NBC Nightly News Anchor Lester Holt and reporters Anne Thompson and Chris Jansing, who discussed campaign and political coverage. Soul of the First Amendment author Floyd Abrams and Media Law Resource Center Executive Director George Freeman led a discussion on the relationship between national security and the press. 

Representatives from CNN Digital Labs, Turner Broadcasting Multiplatform Research and Storyful Social Media News explored contemporary issues in digital and live news reporting. Kean University Trustee and CNBC Senior Vice President Steve Fastook shared his insights into the unique challenges of producing a live town hall broadcast with President Obama.

Mirrer teaches news literacy courses at Kean that help students develop the skills needed to discern the difference between real and fake news and examine competing agendas, like free speech and national security.  

The International Radio and Television Society is dedicated to connecting scholars and researchers with broadcasters to enhance the quality of journalism education.