Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts welcomed Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), as the featured guest of this year’s Hardman Lecture Series. The two-day program offered MCLA students and faculty a comprehensive learning experience focused on press freedom, ethical journalism, and the role of media in democratic societies.
Exclusive Interview & Student Sessions
The event began on Thursday, November 13, with an exclusive interview in Freel Library conducted by Assistant Professor Müge Karabağ on behalf of MCLA TV.
In this conversation, Ginsberg discussed global threats to press freedom, the essential role of independent journalism in democratic societies, and the challenges journalists face in the field.
Following the interview, Dr. Samantha Pettey moderated a student Q&A and discussion session.
During this hour, Ginsberg responded to questions on:
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media ethics,
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verification processes in newsrooms,
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and the dangers journalists encounter in conflict and crisis zones.
One of her key messages to students echoed throughout the room:
“Facts are our superpower.”
Students had the chance to speak directly with Ginsberg about the evolving challenges of journalism, ethical responsibilities, and the global state of press freedom.
Meetings and VIP Program
Later in the day, Ginsberg joined a private meeting in Murdock Hall with members of the college administration, Hardman committee members, donors, and Hulda Hardman Jowett, representing the Hardman Family Foundation.
This closed session allowed attendees to exchange insights with Ginsberg on the global media landscape, journalist safety, and the future of press freedom.
The evening continued with a VIP Mix & Mingle, where students, faculty, and guests had the opportunity to engage with Ginsberg in an informal setting.
Keynote Lecture
The main Hardman Lecture was held Thursday evening in the CSI Atrium.
Opening remarks were delivered by MCLA President James Birge, followed by a welcome from Ainslie Lefko, the student representative for the Hardman program.
Ginsberg emphasized the urgent need to strengthen local journalism throughout her keynote, calling on the public to support their local newsrooms.
“Even the price of a cup of coffee can make a difference for local journalism.”
She also linked the global decline in press freedom to the rise of authoritarianism:
“The collapse of press freedom is a warning sign of growing autocratic power.”
The evening concluded with a 20-minute Q&A session driven by student questions.
Journalism Workshop
Hardman Lecture programming continued the next day with an in-depth journalism workshop in Murdock Hall.
Students worked closely with Ginsberg, discussing:
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practical decision-making in journalism,
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verification in the digital age,
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ethical dilemmas reporters face, and
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the psychological and physical risks associated with reporting from crisis zones.
Ginsberg underscored why protecting press freedom remains both challenging and essential.
Conclusion
Over two days, the Hardman Lecture Series provided MCLA students with a meaningful and multidimensional look into the ethical and practical foundations of journalism.
Ginsberg’s insights reinforced why strengthening local media, defending truth-based reporting, and safeguarding press freedom remain critical—both locally and globally.
