FAMU SJGC Sending 12 Students to NABJ Convention in Birmingham

School of Journalism & Graphic Communications students at the 2022 NABJ Convention in Las Vegas.(Credit: Christian Whitaker.)

The Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Journalism and Graphic Communication (SJGC) is sending 12 students to the 2023 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Convention and Career Fair in Birmingham, Alabama.

The convention will be held August 2-6 and is the largest gathering of Black journalists, media executives, educators, and marketing professionals in the country. This year’s theme is “#NABJ23: From Revolution to Evolution.” It is the premier multi-day convention for career development, networking, innovation, and journalism education.

The convention offers a unique opportunity for students to network with professionals, attend informative workshops, and gain valuable insights into the industry. This experience will enhance their education and prepare them for successful careers in all areas of media.

FAMU alumna Tia Mitchell (SJGC ’01) has served as the Programming co-chair for the convention for two years and is excited to see such robust participation from students of her alma mater.

“The NABJ Convention isn’t just a networking opportunity; it’s a place for Black journalists to be re-energized and rejuvenated,” Mitchell said. “And so, it’s very important that students also have access to the training, fellowship, and camaraderie the convention offers. I’m so happy that FAMU is sending a large group this year. It shows that the university and the School of Journalism are committed to raising healthy, smart, and well-rounded young journalists. I can’t wait to see my fellow Rattlers in Birmingham.”

The 12 students were chosen to attend the convention based on their academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to diversity in media.

During the NABJ convention, the FAMU SJGC students will have the opportunity to participate in more than 200 workshops, panel discussions, and networking events and attend the career fair with more than 90 companies and organizations.

SJGC Dean Mira Lowe will also participate in the convention. Lowe will present as part of a panel titled “Tuning into Radio Trends & Preservation Issues at HBCU Stations.” The panel will discuss the HBCU Radio Preservation Project, which is surveying and preserving archival materials at radio stations on HBCU campuses.

Students will learn from some of the most respected professionals in the field and connect with potential mentors who can guide them in their careers. The convention provides them a forum to showcase their talents and abilities to prospective employers.

“We are thrilled to be sending a delegation of our top students to the NABJ convention,” said Lowe. “This is an invaluable opportunity for them to learn from industry experts, build connections, and gain insights that will help them succeed in their future careers. We are confident that they will represent FAMU and SJGC with pride and professionalism and look forward to the experiences they will gain from this convention.”

The FAMU SJGC students attending the NABJ convention will be posting regular updates on social media using the official hashtag #NABJ23 and #FAMUATNABJ23. Follow @FAMUSJGC82 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to stay up to date with their experiences and insights throughout the convention.