“There has never been a greater need for exceptional communicators. To secure the best post-grad roles, where their top-ranked UNC Hussman education can be on full display and do the most good, exceptional summer internships must be sought and obtained. But, not every student is financially able to pursue the best opportunities — some in distant locations. Our Lookout Fellows Scholarship enables UNC Hussman students to realize their career dreams by being able to seek, accept and afford great summer internships.”
News
The 2025 Hussman Communicator
Welcome to the 2025 edition of the Hussman Communicator.
In addition to news and updates from the past year, this edition of the Hussman Communicator focuses on the school’s strategic priorities for the future. Through a collaborative process involving faculty, staff, students, alumni and industry partners, we have identified three pillars that will guide our work in the years ahead — The Student Journey; Technology and Innovation; and Research and Graduate Studies. Our priorities are more than aspirations — they are actionable commitments that will shape our curriculum, our culture and our impact on the world.
UNC Hussman's Next Chapter
As the school looks ahead to its next chapter, we are laying the foundation for a future-focused vision that strengthens student experiences, expands technological capacity and deepens our research impact. This direction centers on three key areas of growth and a bold reimagining of experiential learning — one that integrates state-of-the-art resources, academic rigor and real-world practice to serve the citizens of North Carolina and to prepare tomorrow’s leaders in media and communication.
Featured stories
A new era for sports communication at UNC Hussman
In fall 2025, UNC Hussman expanded its sports communication offerings, giving students direct access to industry professionals and hands-on experience in a growing field. From co-teaching with NBA veteran Tyler Hansbrough to a new play-by-play course led by ACC Network broadcaster Matt Krause, students are learning the skills and building the connections needed to thrive in today’s sports media world.
Read more about the expanded sports communication curriculumTesting AI chatbots for local news
What makes local journalism work — and how can it work better? That question is at the heart of the research at UNC Hussman’s Center for Innovation and Sustainability in Local Media. Grounded in real-world newsroom practices, the center’s latest initiative — the Local NewsBot Studio — explores how automation and AI can support local reporting.
Read more about CISLM’s Local NewsBot StudioAn old-fashioned kind of loyalty
In gratitude for the meaningful education he received at Carolina, Joe DeBlasio ’62 has remained a faithful donor to the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media to make sure others can have the kind of supportive education he did.
Read more about DeBlasio’s continued support for UNC HussmanThe Student Journey
UNC Hussman is reimagining how it prepares students for the evolving media landscape — starting before they arrive on campus and continuing throughout their careers. Through an innovative, integrated curriculum that is grounded in hands-on learning, mentoring and expanded opportunities, the school is building a more connected, career-ready experience that links classroom innovation with real-world impact.
Technology and Innovation
UNC Hussman is investing in the tools, infrastructure and mindset needed to support a future-focused education. With an emphasis on artificial intelligence, immersive storytelling and cutting-edge software, the school is building a sustainable foundation for innovation in classrooms, centers, labs and studios. The goal: to prepare ethical, tech-savvy media professionals who shape the future of communication.
Research and Graduate Programs
UNC Hussman is expanding its research footprint and strengthening graduate programs to meet the demands of a changing media landscape. With a focus on Ph.D. support, global partnerships and faculty development, the school is building a culture of innovation, scholarship and impact. That growth includes long-term investment in graduate education and increased support for faculty and staff to meet the evolving needs of the school. The goal: to position UNC Hussman as a global leader in communication research and graduate education.
supporting strategic initiatives
“My husband and I have seen firsthand the power of a UNC Hussman education. Our daughter graduated from Carolina prepared to thrive, thanks to the tools and technologies that helped her succeed in the classroom and launch her career. We’re proud to help ensure that future students have the same access to high-quality equipment and cutting-edge resources — because when they leave Carolina, they should be ready to soar.”
“Carolina shaped me professionally. The lessons I learned in Carroll Hall and the examples my mentors set for me in Chapel Hill guide my work more than 15 years after completing my doctorate. But I wouldn’t be a Tar Heel and the journalism professor I am today without the generosity of donors who made my studies at UNC possible. It’s a privilege to use our planned gift to invest in future students’ opportunities at Carolina.”
Read the full issue
Special thanks to Amanda Slatter of Slatter Design Co. for her partnership on this project.