Harris Faulkner Visits Southern University to Discuss Military Careers and Journalism

Image credits: Nexstar Media, Inc.

Emmy-winning journalist Harris Faulkner recently visited Southern University to engage with cadets from the university's ROTC program, as well as students majoring in mass communication. Faulkner, who is a military veteran's daughter, discussed her experiences growing up in a military family and the importance of understanding the human side of military service. She also emphasized the need for balance and discipline in pursuing a military career, citing the example of a midshipman who had assisted with hurricane evacuations in Roseland.

Faulkner's visit was part of Southern University's Day of Honor, and she received the prestigious Chancellor's Award for Excellence and Lifetime Achievement. During her discussion with the cadets, she asked about their motivation for joining the military and how they stay committed to their careers. Many cadets shared that they were inspired by successful family members who had joined the military, while others said that the military provided a clear path when they were uncertain about their future. Faulkner also highlighted the importance of leadership and discipline in military careers, noting that these skills can be applied to many areas of life.

The discussion occurred amid declining military recruitment numbers, with only about 23 percent of Americans ages 17 to 24 qualifying for military service without requiring waivers. Faulkner noted that historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like Southern University have played a significant role in helping the military meet its recruitment challenges. Southern University's ROTC program has produced over 2,000 officers since its inception in 1947, including multiple generals and Medal of Honor recipients. Faulkner's visit was seen as a powerful moment for Southern students, with Councilman Anthony Kenney praising her presence as a figurehead in the news world.

During her visit, Faulkner also met with student journalists and those majoring in mass communication, offering insight into her decades-long career in journalism. She emphasized the evolving landscape of journalism, highlighting the rise of independent media while reinforcing the importance of credibility. Faulkner's show, "The Faulkner Focus," will broadcast live from Southern University's campus, putting the university in the national spotlight. The event was celebratory, complete with a special performance by Southern's renowned Human Jukebox marching band.

Some of the key points discussed during Faulkner's visit include: * The importance of understanding the human side of military service * The need for balance and discipline in pursuing a military career * The role of HBCUs in helping the military meet its recruitment challenges * The evolving landscape of journalism and the importance of credibility * The significance of leadership and discipline in military careers * The impact of Faulkner's visit on Southern University students, including the opportunity to learn from a leading voice in broadcast news.