Make media matter at IU

The IU School of Journalism is getting a face-lift in terms of marketing, with a new window display and the "J" theme. In addition, Bradley Hamm, associate dean of the School of Communications at Elon University in North Carolina, has accepted the position of dean of the journalism school. Hamm's new job certainly won't be a stroll in the park, but this is a unique time in the school's history.\nThe current dean, Trevor Brown, cannot be replaced by anyone. During his 20 years of service as dean, he improved the journalism school in the midst of massive technological change and presided over a nationally highly ranked program. Brown commands deep respect and a lofty reputation inside and outside Ernie Pyle Hall.\nWhile it's understandable that a few faculty members might be wary of such a significant shift as the dean of their school, they can greatly influence the school's direction. Though there are not glaring problems that need new solutions, the school does need to continue pursuing the ever-growing horizon of media.\nVirtually everyone consumes some sort of media, whether in the form of news, entertainment or advertising, and we are all affected by it. Indeed, open media and a free press are requisite ingredients for our nation's democratic ideals. A major change at any of IU's schools, such as a new dean, matters to the University as a whole.\nIf everyone involved at the journalism school contributes ideas and welcomes Hamm, he can be much more effective, and the school as a whole will be as strong as possible.\nBuilding upon existing strengths, the external changes to the school's theme "Media Careers that Matter" also must encompass a renewed dedication internally at the journalism school. Hamm's selection represents a rare chance to get people excited about journalism.\nThe journalism school has untapped offerings to students outside its own school. Making classes more accessible to non-majors would go a long way to help all students appreciate and affect the media. Career services could better serve students with more outreach to businesses and more resources to get IU's students hired when they graduate. The School of Journalism faces a challenging juxtaposition of public relations programs and classic journalism training. This dual role needs a strong leader to direct it.\nHamm comes to IU with meaningful experience in hiring top-notch faculty. IU's journalism faculty already boasts stars, but in the next few years, we hope Hamm can add to the prestige and substance of teaching. Attendance at some journalism classes can be spotty, and one part of solving the problem is hiring engaging professors with established journalism careers.\nHamm also looks to emphasize an international perspective in educating young media professionals. A wide worldview and understanding of journalism in other cultures will only make IU journalism students more marketable and better at their jobs.\nThe new dean is welcome at Ernie Pyle Hall, and we have high expectations for him to continue past success and expand the School of Journalism's reach both on campus and around the world.