March 20, 2012 (Jackson) – One of the biggest panels of public relations, broadcast and media representatives in Mississippi will talk with Belhaven University students about media ethics on March 28. This rare gathering of media professionals is hosted by Belhaven University’s Communication Department in the Student Center Theatre.
This conference from 9:00 A.M to 12:00 P.M. will focus on public relations, broadcasting, and media management. Belhaven students from the Ethics in Mass Media class are working on the conference as a final project for the course.
Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony, Professor & Chair of the Communication Department, said, “This conference will give our students the ability to speak with media professionals who represent the areas in which they desire to work. Students will learn what it takes to become a media professional.“
Among Belhaven communication students, high school and community college students interested in mass communication and journalism are invited to attend the event.
The three panels will consist of the following representatives:
Public Relations
“Maintaining your values when your client compromises theirs”
Mick Bullock, Communications Director for Governor Phil Bryant
Sherry Hilton, Vice Treasurer and Director for Communications for Treasurer Lynn Fitch
Shelia Skipper, Public Relations Director for the Mississippi Manufacturers Association
Iris Raeshaun, Publisher of Our News Today, Hattiesburg, MS
Pete Smith, Public Relations Director, Mississippi Department of Education
Broadcasting
“Truth, Values, and Beliefs: a standard to covering the news”
Dennis Smith, News Director WLBT TV 3
Rick Russell, News Director WJTV TV 12
Bruce Barkley, News Director WAPT TV 16
Stan Sanders, News Director FOX 40
Randy Bell, News Director, Clear Channel Radio
Media Managers
“Social Media and New Technology: its impact on your marketing niche”
Stuart Kellogg, General Manager WAPT TV 16
Don Loy, Station Manager Fox 40
Jimmie Cromwell, General Manager WJTV TV 12
Kenny Windham, Clear Channel
Brian Tolley, Executive Editor Clarion Ledger
Ronnie Agnew, Executive Director Mississippi Public Broadcasting
Phillip Shirley, CEO Godwin Group
Dr. Anthony adds, “We hope that students will take advantage of this conference to meet the media and ask those burning questions that they want and need to know.”
Dr. Roger Parrott, Belhaven University President, will also welcome and introduce the media professionals to our campus. This event will be an exciting time for communication majors and the university.
Belhaven stands among the select Christian colleges and universities that offer a unique general core curriculum encouraging the development of a personal worldview. The university believes a Christian worldview is a key to preparing men and women academically and spiritually to serve Christ Jesus in their careers, in human relationships, and in the world of ideas.
Founded in 1883, Belhaven University now serves over 3,000 students from campuses in Jackson, Memphis, Orlando, Houston, Chattanooga, Atlanta and online, offering traditional undergraduate degrees, graduate and adult degree programs, and online degree programs.