Courtesy of Texas Southern University
The 2024 Commweek, signifying the 42nd Intercultural and Communication Conference of the School of Communication at Texas Southern University will be held April 8-12, 2024. Themed “Amplifying Diverse Voices in Media and Communication,” the conference will culminate with an Awards Gala on Friday, April 12, at the University’s Tiger Room.
The Intercultural Communication Conference provides a forum for scholars, students, professionals, and civic-minded leaders to explore topics with cultural, political, economic, and social implications as well as communication dynamics.
This year, a distinguished lineup of dignitaries, scholars, and professionals have confirmed their participation in this conference. For example, on the opening day of the conference, Monday, April 8, the Honorable Martha Castex-Tatum, City of Houston Vice Mayor Pro-Tem, and TSU’s Provost, Dr. Carl Goodman will deliver the opening remarks.
On Thursday, April 11, Dr. Mary Evans Sias, Interim President of Texas Southern University, will provide the opening welcome, while Dr. Kathleen McElroy, Professor at the School of Journalism and Media at the University of Texas at Austin, will deliver the keynote address. Kathleen McElroy, a native of the Third Ward of Houston is the daughter of Lucinda Martin and George McElroy, the first African-American to earn a master’s degree in journalism from the School of Journalism at the University of Missouri.
Additionally, the NBCU Academy’s Next Level Summit will be featured live at the state-of-the-art School of Communication TV Studio as part of this event. This session will also be broadcast live on NBC’s virtual platforms, providing a unique opportunity for engagement and collaboration.
But the theme for is necessary and also, it is coming at the right time. The challenges posed by a lack of diverse voices in media and communication can be seen across social, political, economic, and cultural spheres of influence. These issues can influence the views represented in news coverage and dissemination. Indeed, the diversity of perspectives is key to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
“The 2024 event will be special because we are equally raising scholarship funds for gifted and economically disadvantaged students in the School of Communication,” said Dr. Chris Ulasi, Interim Dean of the School of Communication. Traditionally, a majority of our students rely on some form of financial assistance to fund their education. This is why I am using this opportunity to appeal to individuals, corporate and community organizations to support this cause.”