CBS News and Stations Partners with Syracuse University’s Newhouse School to Combat Misinformation
In an era of rampant misinformation and disinformation, CBS News and Stations is joining forces with Syracuse University’s renowned S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications to equip aspiring journalists with the skills to navigate this complex landscape. The partnership kicks off with a two-day program commencing January 30th, featuring a panel discussion titled "An Eye on Misinformation and Disinformation." This collaborative initiative aims to foster critical thinking and provide students with practical tools to discern truth from falsehood in the digital age. The partnership underscores the importance of journalistic integrity and the evolving role of media literacy in an increasingly interconnected world.
The inaugural event will feature prominent CBS News journalists, including Senior White House correspondent Weijia Jiang, congressional correspondent Scott MacFarlane, reporter Ali Bauman, and CBS News Confirmed executive editor Rhona Tarrant. These seasoned professionals will share their insights and experiences, offering invaluable perspectives on the challenges of reporting accurately in an environment saturated with misinformation. The panel discussion will serve as a springboard for ongoing collaboration between CBS News and Stations and the Newhouse School, creating unique opportunities for students to engage with industry leaders and develop essential skills for navigating the complexities of modern journalism.
This new partnership represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between academic study and real-world practice. It will provide Newhouse students with unparalleled access to CBS News and Stations resources, including collaborative content creation opportunities and engagement with journalists in major media hubs like New York and Washington, D.C. This immersive experience will allow students to learn from the best in the field and develop a deeper understanding of the evolving media landscape. Laurie Orlando, SVP of Talent Strategy and Development at CBS News and Stations, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the importance of preparing future journalists to navigate the complexities of reporting on local, national, and global scales.
The collaboration coincides with the Newhouse School’s 60th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to providing cutting-edge journalism education. Dean Mark J. Lodato emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that it offers a "tremendous opportunity" for students to learn from leading reporters, editors, and producers. He expressed gratitude to the CBS News and Stations team for their commitment to sharing their expertise on these critical issues. The initiative underscores the Newhouse School’s dedication to fostering journalistic excellence and preparing students to meet the challenges of the ever-changing media environment.
Beyond the panel discussion, the partnership will feature a masterclass led by Newhouse senior associate dean Regina Luttrell and research professor Jason Davis, in collaboration with the CBS News team. This intensive workshop will delve into the tools and techniques used to analyze misinformation and disinformation. Through interactive case studies, real-world examples, and hands-on exercises, students will gain practical skills for identifying and combating false narratives. The masterclass will empower students with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the digital information landscape and report with accuracy and integrity.
Twenty-five Newhouse students, selected through a competitive application process open to juniors, seniors, and graduate students, will participate in the masterclass. This exclusive opportunity will provide them with direct access to industry professionals and invaluable training in navigating the challenges of misinformation. As part of their visit, the CBS News and Stations team will also review student reels, offering personalized feedback and guidance to aspiring journalists. This comprehensive approach to mentorship and skill development highlights the commitment of both CBS News and Stations and the Newhouse School to fostering the next generation of journalistic talent.