Headline: Pulitzer Prize Finalist Jacqueline Charles to Deliver Nelson Benton Lecture on Immigrant Communities and Disinformation
Chapel Hill, NC – October 5, 2024 – The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Hussman School of Journalism and Media is set to host the highly anticipated Nelson Benton Lecture featuring acclaimed journalist Jacqueline Charles. The event, scheduled for Thursday, October 10, at 7 p.m. in Carroll Hall’s Knight Learning Lab (CA 111), will focus on the critical issue of "Immigrant Communities in the Age of Disinformation." This free, public lecture promises a compelling exploration of the challenges immigrant communities face in navigating the complex landscape of misinformation and disinformation. Registration is required for attendance.
Jacqueline Charles, a distinguished 1994 UNC Hussman alumna, brings a wealth of experience and a formidable reputation to this important discussion. As the Caribbean correspondent for the Miami Herald, she has consistently delivered insightful and critical coverage of Haiti and the broader English-speaking Caribbean, earning her widespread recognition for her journalistic integrity and dedication to truth. Her work has not only illuminated complex issues but has also given voice to marginalized communities and amplified their stories on a global stage.
Charles’s career has been marked by numerous accolades and honors, reflecting her unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism. She is a Pulitzer Prize finalist, a testament to the depth and impact of her reporting. Furthermore, she is an Emmy Award winner, demonstrating her ability to convey complex stories through compelling visual narratives. This remarkable combination of written and visual storytelling underscores her versatility as a journalist and her dedication to reaching diverse audiences. Adding to her impressive achievements, Charles is the only journalist to have been twice honored as Journalist of the Year by the National Association of Black Journalists, a recognition of her significant contributions to the field and her role as a trailblazer for aspiring journalists of color.
Beyond her journalistic pursuits, Charles is a highly sought-after speaker, lending her expertise and insights to audiences worldwide. Her ability to articulate complex issues with clarity and nuance makes her a compelling voice on matters related to Haiti, immigrant communities, and the crucial need for accurate representation and diversity in media coverage. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton aptly described her as "Haiti’s ambassador to the world," underscoring her significant influence in shaping global understanding of Haitian affairs and advocating for the rights and well-being of Haitian communities.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has also recognized Charles’s exceptional contributions, bestowing upon her the prestigious Distinguished Alumna Award. This honor highlights her impact not only as a journalist but also as a role model for future generations of Hussman graduates. More recently, in 2022, Charles was inducted into the NC Media & Journalism Hall of Fame, solidifying her legacy as a prominent figure in the state’s media landscape. This induction further underscores her enduring impact on journalism and her lasting contributions to the profession.
The upcoming Nelson Benton Lecture offers a unique opportunity to engage with a leading voice in journalism on a topic of critical importance in today’s information-saturated world. Charles’s expertise and insights promise to shed light on the challenges immigrant communities face in navigating the complex landscape of disinformation and misinformation. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register early to secure their place at this timely and important event. This lecture is not just an academic exercise but a vital conversation for our times, addressing a critical issue that impacts communities both locally and globally.