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 esteemed journalist Jacqueline Charles for the Nelson Benton Lecture. Scheduled for Thursday, October 10th, at 7 p.m. in Carroll Hall’s Knight Learning Lab (CA 111), Charles will delve into the crucial topic of "Immigrant Communities in the Age of Disinformation.” The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating. This lecture promises to be a timely and vital exploration of the challenges faced by immigrant communities in navigating the complex landscape of misinformation and its impact on their lives.
Jacqueline Charles, a 1994 UNC Hussman alumna, brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished career to this important discussion. As the Caribbean correspondent for the Miami Herald, Charles has earned widespread acclaim for her in-depth and critical coverage of Haiti and the English-speaking Caribbean. Her work has consistently shed light on the complex political, social, and economic realities of the region, often focusing on the experiences of immigrant communities. Her commitment to accurate and nuanced reporting has made her a leading voice on issues affecting these communities. Charles’s dedication to journalistic integrity and her deep understanding of the region will provide attendees with unique insights into the intersection of immigration and disinformation.
Charles’s reputation as a leading journalist is underscored by numerous accolades and recognitions. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton aptly described her as "Haiti’s ambassador to the world," highlighting her influential role in shaping the global understanding of Haiti and its diaspora. Sought after for her expertise, Charles is a frequent speaker at conferences and events, sharing her knowledge and insights on Haiti, immigrant communities, and the importance of accurate and diverse representation in media coverage. She is a powerful advocate for responsible journalism and its role in fostering understanding and empathy across cultures.
Her long list of professional achievements includes being a Pulitzer Prize Finalist, a testament to her exceptional journalistic skills and the impact of her work. She is also an Emmy Award winner, demonstrating her versatility and success in different media formats. Further solidifying her status as a leading journalist in her field, Charles is the only individual to have been twice named Journalist of the Year by the National Association of Black Journalists, a prestigious honor recognizing her significant contributions to journalism and her dedication to representing diverse voices.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has also recognized Charles’s remarkable contributions, bestowing upon her the Distinguished Alumna Award. This prestigious award acknowledges her outstanding professional accomplishments and her commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalism. More recently, in 2022, Charles was inducted into the NC Media & Journalism Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential journalists in North Carolina. This honor further solidifies her position as a role model for aspiring journalists and a champion for truth and accuracy in reporting.
The Nelson Benton Lecture featuring Jacqueline Charles promises to be a compelling and insightful event, exploring the critical intersection of immigrant communities and disinformation. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by misinformation, its impact on vulnerable populations, and the importance of accurate and responsible reporting. Charles’s expertise and experience will provide valuable context and analysis, shedding light on the complex dynamics shaping the lives of immigrant communities in today’s media landscape. Registering for this free event is crucial to secure a seat and participate in this important conversation.