We, the Storytellers

"We, the Storytellers" encapsulates the essence of the Mass Communication and Journalism department at our university, where a vibrant community of budding journalists and communication enthusiasts come together to craft narratives that shape the world. Our department is a haven for those who believe in the power of words, images, and multimedia to inform, inspire, and incite change.

Our Story, Our History

We cultivate a deep appreciation for those who have come before us, those who laid the foundations that we build up on.  

The Department of Mass Communications and Journalism at Norfolk State University, established in 1994 from the merger of the Journalism (1974) and Mass Communications (1975) departments, has a rich history of accomplishments and leadership. The Journalism Department, under leaders like Professors Lawrence Kaggwa and Linda Scanlan, gained recognition for producing well-trained journalism graduates from underrepresented backgrounds and fostering partnerships, such as with The Virginian-Pilot. It also received significant grants for facility improvements and journalism programs.

The Mass Communications Department, led by Drs. Wilbert Edgerton and Lenora Brogdon-Wyatt among others, achieved milestones like the launch of WNSB-FM, and the creation of annual communications conference coordinated by Dr. Grady James. Successive chairs, including Professor Emmanuel Onyedike and Dr. Wanda Brockington, have guided the department through re-accreditations and modernizations, maintaining its legacy in the evolving media landscape.

Our Purpose Our Mission Statement

The Department of Mass Communications and Journalism shall advance academic and professional competence primarily in undergraduate and graduate students that are interested in media careers, but also in alumni and mid-career media practitioners, through programs of teaching, research and service that combine strong liberal arts and science studies with professional preparation. The department shall strive to produce graduates that meet national standards of performance in gathering, editing, reporting, interpreting and disseminating information that would shape public discourse.