Award-winning journalist and storyteller to advance inclusive media practices and innovation
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Feb. 5, 2026) — Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC) proudly announces Professor Ottavia Spaggiari as the newly appointed Knight Chair in Inclusive Journalism with tenure. This prestigious position underscores FAMU’s commitment to advancing journalism education and fostering inclusive media practices that reflect the complexity of society.
“We are thrilled to have Professor Spaggiari as the Knight Chair,” said SJGC Dean Mira Lowe. “Her expertise and vision will help us empower the next generation to tell stories that capture the full breadth of the human experience.”
As Knight Chair, Professor Spaggiari will lead efforts to train students to responsibly produce and publish inclusive stories with conviction and authority. She will facilitate fluency in digital media, community and global engagement, and storytelling to meet the demands of today’s evolving media landscape.
In addition, she will collaborate with industry partners and journalism organizations to provide professional development opportunities for students and engage with alumni to strengthen SJGC’s impact.
Spaggiari is an accomplished journalist and storyteller whose work has appeared in leading international outlets, including The Guardian, The New Yorker, Al Jazeera, CNN International, The New Humanitarian, and Solomon.
She brings a wealth of experience in investigative reporting, narrative journalism, and global instruction.
Her commitment to amplifying emerging voices and producing impactful stories aligns with SJGC’s mission to prepare students as confident communicators and leaders in a competitive workforce.
Previously, she served as a lecturer at Columbia University’s journalism school and at La Sapienza University in Rome. Her contributions to journalism education also include teaching at St. Joseph’s University and the City College of New York.
Spaggiari has been recognized for her impact in the field, including being shortlisted for the 2021 European Press Prize and receiving the Amnesty Media Award for Best Feature. She previously served as an investigative fellow at Columbia’s Global Migration Project and is a three-time recipient of the Investigative Journalism for Europe grant.
“I’m deeply honored by this appointment,” Spaggiari said. “It’s truly a privilege to become part of this historic institution and join the incredible group of journalists, media professionals, and educators who are training the next generation of reporters and media leaders at the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication.”
The Knight Chairs in Journalism are distinguished professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom, bridging the gap between academic learning and newsroom practice. Since its inception in 1990, the Knight Foundation has endowed 26 chairs and professors at 23 universities nationwide, advancing media and journalism education in the digital age.
“The Knight Chairs program was created to bring real-world leadership into journalism education, and Professor Spaggiari embodies that mission,” said Amalie Nash, vice president of journalism at the Knight Foundation. “Her work reflects a deep commitment to inclusive storytelling, innovation, and public service — qualities that are essential to the future of journalism. We’re proud to support Florida A&M University as it continues to prepare journalists who reflect and serve the communities they cover.”
SJGC has a proud legacy of Knight Chairs. Retired professor Joe Ritchie served as FAMU’s first Knight Chair beginning in 1992, leading initiatives in writing, editing, and international reporting projects for more than two decades. Professor Spaggiari continues that tradition of journalistic excellence as the newest Knight Chair at FAMU.
About FAMU SJGC
Founded in 1982, SJGC is the first program of its kind at a historically Black college or university to receive national accreditation. Through academic achievement, immersive learning and a commitment to innovation, SJGC equips students to shape the future of media.
For more information about SJGC and its programs, visit sjgc.famu.edu.
About the Knight Foundation
The Knight Foundation is one of the nation’s largest supporters of local journalism and a champion of free expression. Its investments support local, nonpartisan news organizations and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to build sustainable business models.
For more information about the Foundation and its Knight Chairs, visit knightfoundation.org/knight-chairs.
Media Contact:
Kanya Stewart, kanya.stewart@famu.edu
Christian Whitaker, christian1.whitaker@famu.edu
