DANBURY, Connecticut — The Western Connecticut State University Libraries will host a four-part lecture series, “(Un)Informed: Journalism, Social Media, and the Rise of News as Entertainment.” The lecture series coincides with a book display, “In Print & Practice: Ethically Researching and Reporting” in the lobby of the Ruth A. Haas Library on the university’s Midtown campus, 181 White St. in Danbury.
The free lectures are scheduled as follows. All are from noon to 1 p.m. in the Ruth A. Haas Library and the public is invited:
Thursday, March 27: Communication professor Dr. JC Barone will discuss “The TV is Dead. Long Live TV. Media Framing and Big Biz.”
Tuesday, April 1: Bethel residents and journalists Jim and Jacky Smith will discuss “The First Amendment: Covering our Communities.”
Thursday, April 10: Writing professor and former professional journalist John Roche will speak about “Getting it Right in a Changing Media Landscape.”
Thursday, April 17: Archivist and Special Collections Librarian Brian Stevens will share insights into “Journalism and Activism at WestConn.”
Veronica Kenausis, associate dean, Library Services & Academic Success Programs, said, “We hope you will join us for this series of presentations that explores the evolution of journalism and news reporting, and the impact that social media, news entertainment, disinformation and misinformation have had on politics, activism, and society. The loss of local news and trust in mainstream media has implications for our elections, our government, and our world.”
Kenausis continued, “The series complements the current library exhibit that explores how information gets created and shared in our modern society, and outlines our ethical responsibility to verify sources, recognize misinformation tactics, and ‘think before you link.’ It also highlights the importance of hyperlocal news in the form of university publications, including the student newspaper The Echo, and its impact on student activism.”
Western Connecticut State University changes lives by providing all students with a high-quality education that fosters their growth as individuals, scholars, professionals and leaders in a global society. Our vision: To be widely recognized as a premier public university with outstanding teachers and scholars who prepare students to contribute to the world in a meaningful way.