Renowned Washington Lobbyist Podesta to speak at Southern Miss Nov. 20

The University of Southern Mississippi's School of Mass Communication and Journalism will host Tony Podesta, the founder and chairman of the Podesta Group, who will present, “The ‘King of K Street:' Champion of Social Change or Political Profiteer?” This lecture will be held Nov. 20 at 11 a.m. in the Polymer Science Building, room 101 on the Hattiesburg campus. This event is free and open to the public.

Podesta, who POLITICO calls a “King of K Street,” is one of Washington D.C.'s most accomplished and effective lobbyists. He will address changing outcomes in a contentious political environment and the ethical implications of partnerships between business and government.

Podesta has been distinguished by The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, The New York Times, GQ,Newsweek and Bloomberg Businessweek, among other publications as a leading lobbyist both inside and outside the nation's capitol. In addition to being named one of the top 11 lawyer-lobbyists of the past decade by Legal Times, Newsweek also named Podesta “The Lobbyist.” He has also consistently been named a top lobbyist by the newspapers Roll Call and The Hill.

“During his extensive career in Washington, D.C., Mr. Podesta has approached the vital work of moving important issues through the political process with independence and fairness,” Dr. Vanessa Murphree, graduate coordinator and associate professor of mass communication, said. “I know our students and faculty will be eager to hear from someone who has had such a significant impact across public and private enterprises.”

For more information about upcoming events in the College of Arts and Letters, including in the School of Mass Communication and Journalism, visit www.usm.edu/arts-letters/now.