Tomorrow, I have the privilege of joining the 155^th Annual Missouri Press Convention & Trade Show as its keynote speaker. Since the School of Journalism was founded in 1908, Mizzou has risen to the challenge as a leader in innovation and excellence in the fields of journalism and strategic communications. We recognize that freedom of expression is an indispensable element of our democracy and fundamental to our community’s ability to discover, explore, interpret and question knowledge.

We see this important work happening in so many ways and across so many programs, including our J-School, our Novak Leadership Institute and our Broader Impacts Program. I look forward to talking about all of this important work with those who provide news and service to readers throughout our state. I know that MU will continue to ensure a strong future for Missouri journalism through its exceptional faculty members and students who are committed to research, education and an informed citizenry.