The Florida A&M University School of Journalism and Graphic Communication welcomes Deborah Thigpen as a 2022 visiting professor. Thigpen has more than 40 years of journalism and public relations experience and will instruct students in the following courses: Reporting & Writing I, Intro to Public Relations, and PR Research & Strategies.
“Serving as a visiting professor is my opportunity to help move our culture forward through the encouragement and education of the bright minds here at FAMU’s School for Journalism and Graphic Communication,” Thigpen said. “I’m proud to educate at a powerful transformative system of teaching and socialization.”
She started Thigpen & Adsociates, Inc., a public relations and marketing communications firm in 1988. Thigpen has consulted for EPA, Goodyear, Harris County Flood Control District, NASA, Ohio Lottery, The Cleveland Cavaliers, and others.
“I’m thrilled that Deborah Thigpen is joining the School of Journalism faculty,” said SJGC Dean Mira Lowe.“She brings a wealth of public relations and entrepreneurial knowledge that will aid our students in a major way. We are all excited to collaborate with Professor Thigpen to enrich students’ J-school experience.”
Thigpen received her B.S. in journalism in 1978 from Bowling Green State University. She earned her M.A. in management (2005) and D.M. (2011) from the University of Phoenix. Dr. Thigpen also received executive training at the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, Boston University, and Kent State University.
