JAC Springs into Action

The Journalism Advancement Council

When the school’s Journalism Advancement Council (JAC) met for its semi-annual meeting on May 13, the focus was on the school’s undergraduate programs.  JAC members met with the school’s Undergraduate Affairs Council (UAC) to discuss planned curriculum review as well as plans for assessment of undergraduate programs. 

“It's great to have JAC feedback on our curriculum because they bring the perspective of the people who hire our graduates, coupled with a feel for the mission of the School,” Associate Dean and UAC Chair Al Stavitsky said. 

The JAC also met with students from each of the school’s capstone sequences, including live cablecast Oregon News; Mosaic, the news-ed capstone; Flux magazine; and the Advertising Competition Team.

“We were all impressed, not only with the level of work that goes on and the time and dedication required, but also with the students’ maturity and professionalism,”  JAC Chair Neal Rosen ‘74 said.  “They were able to discuss very clearly what they were doing and why.  It’s clear these programs do a great job of preparing students for professional success.”

One of the JAC’s goals, Rosen said, is to have more involvement with undergraduate education.  “We can provide both students and faculty with an ‘in-the-field’ perspective,” he said. 

In addition to learning about undergraduate programs, the JAC heard updates on the school’s Portland Program (flashs05p1.pdf, 148kb), the SOJC’s progress in Campaign Oregon:  Transforming Lives and the school’s strategic communications plan.

The Journalism Advancement Council made up of eighteen distinguished J-school alumni and industry professionals, advises the School on strategic planning and development and provides a unique opportunity for students to connect with professionals in a variety of media.  Dean Tim Gleason serves as an ex-officio member.

Alumni and friends who are interested in learning more about the JAC may contact Neal Rosen.