Murrow’s 49th Annual Symposium
CONNECT! Discovery Through Curiosity!
At the Murrow Symposium, we believe that curiosity is the catalyst for groundbreaking discoveries and profound connections. Whether you’re a student or a seasoned professional, come be part of an event that promises to challenge, inspire, and connect you with the future of communication.
April 1-2, 2025
Washington State University, Pullman, WA
Experience the insight and inspiration from Symposium 49. Rewatch keynote addresses and panels featuring distinguished speakers and honorees on our YouTube channel.
Murrow Lifetime Achievement Honoree
Harry Smith
The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication is honored to announce Harry Smith, the award-winning television journalist, as the recipient of the Murrow Lifetime Achievement Award in Journalism at the 49th Murrow Symposium, where he will also deliver the keynote address on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
With a career spanning over four decades, Smith has become one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism. He has reported for CBS News, NBC News, and MSNBC, covering a wide range of topics from major historical events to compelling human interest stories. Known for his deep empathy, storytelling, and integrity, Smith has received numerous accolades, including multiple Emmys and Edward R. Murrow Awards. His dedication to the craft of journalism and his commitment to uncovering the human side of the news have left an indelible mark on the field.
Meet Our Keynote Speakers
Opening Breakfast Keynote
Sarah Kneller
Sarah Kneller is an Emmy-winning innovator and esports pioneer, known for revolutionizing the broadcasting and gaming industries. As the Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer at August Interactive and a former Executive Producer at Valve Software, she has spent over two decades at the forefront of technology and storytelling. Sarah’s groundbreaking work, including leading the Emmy-winning broadcast of The International – Dota 2 Championships, has redefined audience engagement and set new standards in live esports coverage.
A graduate of Washington State University, Sarah is passionate about fostering community through immersive gaming experiences and inspiring the next generation of leaders in tech and entertainment.
Day 2 Breakfast Keynote
Andrea Joyce
Andrea Joyce is a highly regarded sports broadcaster, currently serving as a prominent voice for NBC Sports. Over her distinguished career, she has covered numerous iconic events, including the Olympic Games, U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and Wimbledon. Prior to joining NBC, Andrea made her mark at CBS Sports, where she reported on events like the NCAA Final Four and the U.S. Open Tennis Championships.
Andrea’s illustrious career in sports journalism exemplifies the values celebrated by the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication: excellence in storytelling, dedication to the craft, and an unwavering commitment to informing and inspiring audiences.
Closing Lunch Keynote
Jaimee L. Fox
Jaimee L. Fox, MA, APR, is a seasoned communications leader with over 14 years of experience in strategic communications, change management, and internal engagement. As Corporate Communications Director at Thesis, a Portland-based creative agency, Jaimee shapes brand narratives, leads communications, and fosters a high-performance culture.
A proud alumna of Washington State University and McNair Scholar, Jaimee holds a Master of Arts in Public Relations from Michigan State University and is an Accredited Public Relations professional. She resides in Vancouver, Washington, with her husband Jamal and their two children, Jamal Jr. and Jordynn.
Symposium Time Capsule
Explore our Symposium archives to get a glimpse into the past events that shaped our conversations.
Symposium 48
Symposium 47
Symposium 46
Support the Murrow Symposium and Empower the Next Generation of Communication Leaders.
The Murrow Symposium is a cornerstone event for the state of Washington, bringing together students, alumni, and industry leaders to inspire the next generation of communication professionals. As part of our land-grant mission, we are committed to keeping this event free and accessible to students and the public.
We invite you to become part of the Circle of Murrow Stakeholders—a dedicated group of partners and donors whose support ensures the Symposium remains an impactful and transformative experience for all who attend.
Why Support the Murrow Symposium?
- Make an Impact on the Future of Communication: Your gift directly supports Murrow students, providing them with access to industry insights, professional networking, and career-building opportunities.
- Strengthen Your Connection: Align your values with Edward R. Murrow’s legacy of integrity and excellence while supporting our mission to foster ethical journalism and strategic communication.
- Recognition Opportunities: We value our stakeholders and are happy to accommodate recognition needs, including showcasing your support as part of our growing community of Symposium supporters.
Your partnership sustains the Murrow Symposium’s mission to provide unparalleled opportunities for students, alumni, and the community. Together, we can continue to offer this event at no cost, ensuring its accessibility to all.
To explore ways you can support the Symposium and join the Circle of Murrow Stakeholders, please contact:
Jeffrey Pilcher
Senior Director of Development
jeff.piltcher@wsu.edu| 509-335-5106
Past Stakeholders
We are proud to recognize the organizations and individuals who have supported the Murrow Symposium in years past. Your continued partnership makes this event possible.