Valdosta Teacher Reflects on Alison B. Parker’s Legacy: Insights from James Madison University Instructor

Honoring a Legacy: JMU Remembers Journalist Alison Parker Ten Years On

HARRISONBURG, Va. – August 26th marked a decade since the tragic deaths of alison B. Parker, a 2012 James Madison University graduate, and her photographer, Adam ward, who were fatally shot during a live news broadcast. As the anniversary passed, those who knew Parker at JMU are focusing not on the circumstances of her death, but on the vibrant life and lasting impact she had on the university community.

Brad Jenkins, general Manager and Advisor for The Breeze, JMU’s student-run news institution, reflected on parker’s time as a student and news editor.He described her as possessing a remarkable combination of sharp journalistic skill and genuine kindness.

“There was this really fierce journalistic ability about her, but it was in this really sweet, kind personality that she had,” Jenkins said.

Beyond her talent, Parker was known for her determination and quick thinking. Jenkins recalled an instance where, during a live shot on campus, a truck obstructed the view. Without hesitation, Parker proactively addressed the situation, directly requesting the driver to move the vehicle, ensuring the story could be told.

Parker’s legacy remains a potent and recurring topic within the JMU campus. Jenkins frequently shares her story during tours of the Alison B. Parker Studio in Harrison Hall, home to Breeze TV, and in various media arts program classes.

A scholarship has also been established in Parker’s name,awarded annually to incoming freshmen and rising seniors in JMU’s School of Media Arts and Design (SMAD) who demonstrate a passion for journalism and a commitment to academic excellence.

As time passes, Jenkins acknowledges that newer students may only have a vague awareness of the tragedy. However, he and other faculty are dedicated to preserving Parker’s memory and continuing to share her inspiring story.

“It’s interesting as the further we get away from this – now 10 years later – fewer people maybe know what happened, or they just have a vague memory of it,” Jenkins noted. “For us, it’s a very vivid memory that we’ll never forget, so it’s good to be able to say, ‘Hey, this studio is named after Alison Parker. Let me tell you about her.’ And then you can kind of see there’s just a real connection.”

jenkins emphasized the importance of keeping Parker’s spirit alive.”I take it very seriously,having known her,to be able to tell other people who she was and keep her memory and her legacy alive here at JMU.”

How can educators effectively integrate teh SPJ Code of Ethics into practical journalism assignments,mirroring Alison Parker’s approach?

The Enduring Impact of a Journalism Educator

alison B. Parker, the beloved journalism instructor tragically taken too soon, continues to inspire educators and students alike. Her dedication to fostering ethical and impactful storytelling resonates deeply within the journalism community, particularly for those who knew her directly or benefited from her mentorship. This article features reflections from a Valdosta, Georgia teacher and insights from a current James Madison University (JMU) instructor, exploring Parker’s lasting legacy and its influence on modern journalism education.We’ll delve into her teaching philosophy,the importance of media ethics,and how educators are carrying forward her commitment to student success.

Alison Parker’s Teaching Philosophy: A Student-Centered Approach

Parker’s approach to teaching wasn’t simply about imparting technical skills; it was about cultivating critical thinkers and responsible communicators. Those who worked closely with her consistently highlight her student-centered methodology.

Emphasis on Storytelling: Parker believed in the power of narrative. She encouraged students to find compelling stories and tell them with accuracy, fairness, and empathy.

Practical Experience: She prioritized hands-on learning, pushing students to gain real-world experience through internships, reporting assignments, and multimedia projects.

Mentorship & Support: Parker was known for her unwavering support of her students, providing guidance and encouragement throughout their academic journey and beyond. This extended beyond the classroom, offering career advice and networking opportunities.

digital Journalism Pioneer: Recognizing the evolving media landscape, parker integrated digital tools and techniques into her curriculum, preparing students for the demands of modern journalism.

Media ethics in a Changing Landscape: Parker’s Core Tenets

A cornerstone of Parker’s teaching was a strong emphasis on media ethics. In an era of “fake news” and misinformation, her lessons on journalistic integrity are more relevant than ever.

The SPJ Code of Ethics & Its Application

Parker frequently referenced the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Code of Ethics, emphasizing these key principles:

1. Seek Truth and Report It: A commitment to accuracy and objectivity.
2. Minimize Harm: Considering the potential impact of reporting on individuals and communities.
3. Act Independently: Avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining editorial independence.
4. Be Accountable and Clear: Taking duty for one’s work and being open to criticism.

She didn’t just present these principles as abstract concepts; she challenged students to apply them to complex ethical dilemmas they might encounter in their careers. Discussions often revolved around issues like source confidentiality, plagiarism, and the responsible use of social media.

JMU Instructor’s Perspective: Continuing the Legacy

Dr. Jenna Griffin, a current instructor at james Madison University, where Parker previously taught, shares her perspective on continuing Parker’s work. “Alison set a high bar for excellence in journalism education,” Griffin explains. “Her commitment to her students and her passion for ethical storytelling are truly inspiring. We strive to honor her memory by upholding those same values in our classrooms.”

Griffin notes several ways the JMU journalism program actively preserves Parker’s legacy:

The Alison B. parker scholarship: Provides financial assistance to deserving journalism students.

Annual Workshops & Seminars: Focused on media ethics and responsible journalism, frequently enough featuring guest speakers who knew Parker.

Curriculum Integration: Parker’s teaching materials and ethical frameworks are integrated into current courses.

Mentorship Programs: Connecting current students with alumni and professionals in the field,mirroring Parker’s dedication to mentorship.

Valdosta Teacher’s Reflections: Impact Beyond JMU

A high school journalism teacher in Valdosta, Georgia, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared how Parker’s work indirectly influenced her teaching. “I frist encountered Alison’s work through online resources and professional growth webinars focused on digital journalism and media literacy. Her emphasis on verifying data and critically evaluating sources was incredibly valuable, especially in today’s climate.”

The teacher implemented several strategies inspired by Parker’s approach:

Fact-Checking Exercises: Regularly incorporating exercises to help students identify misinformation and verify information.

Source Evaluation: teaching students how to assess the credibility of sources, considering factors like bias, accuracy, and transparency.

Ethical Dilemma Discussions: Presenting students with real-world ethical dilemmas and facilitating discussions about responsible decision-making.

Promoting digital Citizenship: Encouraging students to be responsible and ethical digital citizens, understanding the impact of their online actions.

Resources for Journalism Educators & Students

For educators and students seeking to further explore the principles and practices championed by Alison B. Parker, here are some valuable resources:

society of Professional Journalists (SPJ): https://www.spjusa.org/ – Offers resources on media ethics, reporting guidelines, and professional development.

Poynter Institute: https://www.poynter.org/ – Provides training and resources for journalists and media professionals.

Alison: https://alison.com/certificate-courses – Offers free online certificate courses, including options relevant to journalism and media studies.

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