Mira Lowe, dean for Florida A&M University’s FAMU) School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC), has joined the board of directors for the Student Press Law Center (SPLC). SPLC made the official announcement on Tuesday.
Lowe, who was named SJGC dean in 2021, brings a wealth of experience in media and journalism education. Her appointment to the SPLC board further underscores her commitment to protecting the First Amendment rights of student journalists and providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate legal challenges in the media landscape.
“SPLC has a mighty track record of supporting student journalists and defending their free press rights,” Lowe said. “I believe in its vision and am thrilled to join the board at this critical time for journalism.”
Prior to joining FAMU, Lowe served as the assistant dean for student experiences for the University of Florida’s (UF) College of Journalism and Communications and as the director of its (UF) Innovation News Center. The Innovation News Center is one of the largest student-driven newsrooms in the country and provides news coverage throughout the state of Florida.
“Mira’s contributions to supporting student journalism, the First Amendment and the broader news industry are unparalleled,” said Kelly Furnas, chair of SPLC’s board of directors. “As both an educator and a professional, she has consistently championed the values and ethics that SPLC stands for. We are honored and grateful to have her serving on the board of directors.”
Lowe’s distinguished journalism career includes editor roles at CNN Digital and Newsday. She was also the first woman to serve as editor-in-chief of JET magazine.
SPLC’s board of directors consists of up to 15 volunteers from across the fields of journalism, education, law, philanthropy and nonprofit management. Board members serve three-year terms which are renewable for one additional term.
SPLC, founded in 1974, has long been a crucial resource for student media, offering legal assistance, educational resources, and advocacy. Lowe’s addition to the board is expected to further strengthen the organization’s impact on the student press community.
