Transforming Lives

For the School of Journalism and Communication, Campaign Oregon: Transforming Lives is an opportunity to take our school to new heights of excellence—to enhance and intensify what we’ve been doing for nearly a century. With the support of alumni and friends, we can build on our tradition of outstanding students, faculty, and programs.

The power of this private support can’t be overstated. Let me give you one example:

In 1993, Connie Snyder Ballmer ’84 asked the faculty what they needed. Associate Professor Bill Ryan responded, “a graphics lab.” A year later, the Ballmer Graphics Lab replaced drafting tables, paper, and glue with modern technology. Today, its walls display dozens of plaques celebrating the award-winning work of students who discovered their talents there.

During our last campaign, we renovated our building and created four endowed faculty chairs and an endowed deanship. Today, we’re focusing on fundraising opportunities that will give these gifts greater impact: interdisciplinary programs, media ethics, a strong Portland presence, and scholarships.

It’s an ambitious endeavor. But so was running a journalism school in an open-air gymnasium during the early part of this century. So are Ad Team, Flux magazine, UO News, Mosaic, and capstone courses that provide students with essential hands-on experience.

Our mission remains the professional education of future generations of leaders in journalism and journalism education. Our vision is a school with
an even stronger national and international impact. I invite you to join us in our efforts to take our school to new heights of excellence.

Tim Gleason
Edwin L. Artzt Dean