As Part of its Civil Rights Era and the Media Course
Hampton, Va. (April 12, 2024) –Hampton University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism & Communications proudly welcomes Sandra Evers Manly, the cousin of Civil Rights Icon Medgar Evers, to campus on April 24th as part of a groundbreaking course, “Civil Rights Era and the Media,” spearheaded by Dean Julia Wilson, a renowned figure in journalism and international relations.
Evers Manly is an author, philanthropist and founder of the Black Hollywood Education Resource Center. Wilson said the students have delved deep into the intersection of media and the civil rights movement.
As part of the curriculum, Wilson has collaborated with History Makers, esteemed individuals who have made significant contributions to civil rights and social justice. This unique approach has provided students with firsthand insights, personal narratives, and invaluable perspectives on the pivotal role of media in shaping historical narratives and advancing social change.
“I am excited to offer these opportunities to our students through this transformative course, bridging the past and the present and empowering the next generation of journalists and communicators,” said Wilson. “By engaging with history makers and Civil Rights Icons, students are gaining a profound understanding of the media’s impact on the Civil Rights movement and learning how to amplify voices for justice and equality.”
The Civil Rights Era and the Media students have already engaged with history makers such as Dorothy B. Gilliam, the first Black female columnist for the Washington Post, and Don Frederick, former senior editor of the Los Angeles Times and Bloomberg News, participating in eye-opening discussions.
By examining historical contexts, media representations, and contemporary challenges, students are better equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex issues and advocate for social progress through their work in journalism and communications, said Wilson.
“Hampton University is committed to fostering academic excellence and social responsibility,” said Hampton U. President Darrell K. Williams. “Dean Julia Wilson’s leadership exemplifies our dedication to preparing students to become leaders in their fields and agents of positive change in society.”
Most recently, Wilson was selected to receive the Alex Trebek Legacy Fellowship by the Television Academy Foundation, the presenter of the Emmys. Along with the esteemed fellowship brings exclusive access to the Emmys website and courses on interviewing celebrities that Wilson has passed on to the students of The Civil Rights Era and the Media class. Students are using these skills to interview several civil rights leaders and guest speakers.
“This Civil Rights Era and the Media course represents Hampton University’s ongoing commitment to innovation, diversity, and excellence in education,” said President Williams. “Through initiatives like this, Dean Wilson and the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications continue to empower students to make meaningful contributions to the media landscape and beyond.”
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1868, Hampton University has been the Standard of Excellence in higher education for over 150 years. Rich in history and tradition, Hampton University is recognized as one of the top historically black colleges and universities in the world, and recently named the top private university in Virginia. Hampton provides a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. HU is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations. www.hamptonu.edu. For media inquiries, please contact Sarita Scott in the Office of University Relations, at 757.727.5253.
