“Shift Happens: Define Your Next” explores the changing communications landscape as SJGC celebrates WANM-FM’s 50th year in radio.
Award-winning journalists, communications executives, creative innovators and industry leaders will return to Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (FAMU SJGC) October 21-22 for Grads Are Back. The event is an annual homecoming tradition that connects accomplished alumni with the next generation of media and communications professionals.
This year’s program, themed “Shift Happens: Define Your Next,” will explore how artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and shifting industry demands are redefining career opportunities. The festivities begin Wednesday, October 21 at 4 p.m., with “WANM Through the Decades: 50th Anniversary Celebration,” honoring the founders, alumni, advisors, staff and supporters of WANM-FM 90.5. Established in 1976, the student-operated radio station has served as a training ground for generations of broadcasters and media professionals while becoming a beloved voice of the FAMU community. The station has also been recognized among the top college outlets in the nation.
“Grads Are Back reflects the power of our alumni network and its commitment to preparing the next generation of communicators,” said Mira Lowe, who has served as the dean of FAMU SJGC for the past five years. “As our industries evolve, these conversations give students invaluable perspectives on navigating change, embracing new opportunities and defining their own paths to success.”
Thursday’s program opens at 9:30 a.m. with the Knight Chair Speaker Series, “The Power Shift: Who Controls the Story Now?” The discussion will feature Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Corey Johnson of ProPublica; Vicki Bradley, news director and general manager of WTXL ABC 27; Brian A. Rice, global vice president and head of design at Newell Brands; and Will Ayers, senior communications strategist at Aderant.
The 11 a.m. colloquium, “Degree in Motion: Where Journalism Can Take You,” will feature new members of the SJGC Board of Visitors, including Laura J. Downey of WebMD, Johnita Due of CNN and TNT Sports, Eric Winkfield of M Booth, and Kena Lewis, a communications consultant. The session will also include the announcement of the 2026 Thelma Thurston Gorham honorees, recognizing distinguished alumni for their professional achievements and contributions.
Afternoon breakout sessions will explore careers in journalism, sports media, public relations, graphic design and film. Among the featured discussions are “Inside CNN: Rattlers Shaping What’s Next,” “Game-Day Ready: How to Score Your First Sports Gig,” and “Beyond the Byline: From Journalism to Film.” Students can also connect with more than 25 prospective employers during the SJGC Homecoming Career Fair, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Grads Are Back reinforces FAMU SJGC’s legacy of excellence as the first journalism program at a historically Black college or university to earn national accreditation, a distinction achieved in 1982.
For program details, visit gradsareback.com.
About FAMU SJGC
The Florida A&M University School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (FAMU SJGC) is one of the premier historically Black college and university (HBCU) journalism, visual, and mass communications programs in the country. Founded in 1982, it is the first program of its kind at an HBCU to receive national accreditation. With a focus on academic excellence, experiential learning and professional development, SJGC prepares students to be influential storytellers, communicators, and leaders who can meet and exceed the demands of a competitive, evolving media marketplace. Learn more at sjgc.famu.edu.
Media Contacts:
Elise Durham, edurham@CreativeExStudio.com
Christian Whitaker, christian1.whitaker@famu.edu
