Celebrate One Year of Community Impact with the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center

Mon, 02/16/2026 - 09:48am | By: Ame Posey

The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center (RHCJC) is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a series of events that showcase its mission to strengthen community-centered journalism.

"In just one year, we have built a newsroom that not only reports on communities, but stands alongside them,” said RHCJC Executive Director Nichole Cyprian. “Through student-driven journalism, strong partnerships, and a commitment to transparency, we are helping strengthen trust in local media across southeast Mississippi. This is only the beginning of what it means to truly report what matters."

Housed at The University of Southern Mississippi, the Center focuses on providing students with valuable hands-on learning experiences and developing media literacy education programs. RHCJC also works to combat area news deserts by building strong relationships with the local communities of southeast Mississippi.

From February 18-20, RHCJC will host a series of free, public events that reflect on the work and impact of the past year.

“Our anniversary is a chance to celebrate the students, partners and communities that make this work possible,” said RHCJC Managing Editor Whitney Argenbright. “As we look to the future, we’re focused on growing that impact — and inviting the community to be part of what comes next.”

Here’s a look at what’s in store:

Truth on Trial: How False Information Divides and What We Can Do About It
Wednesday, February 18 | 6:30–7:45 p.m.
Thames Polymer Science Research Center Auditorium
This panel discussion will dive into the challenges of misinformation. Journalists, public officials and community leaders will share their insights on the evolving media landscape and offer key insights on how we can fight false information together. 

RHCJC Live: Real Stories and Skills + Your Turn to Step In
Thursday, February 19 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Trent Lott National Center
This student-centered event is an exciting showcase of RHCJC’s programs. Attendees can explore interactive booths, attend professional development mini-sessions and speak with early-career professionals from several Mississippi media companies. 

A Night of Stories That Matter with Rick Cleveland
Friday, February 20 | 6–7:15 p.m. (reception to follow)
USM Joe Paul Theatre
Mississippi Sports Reporter Rick Cleveland will lead an intimate conversation about the art of storytelling, community and character. It’s a look back on an illustrious career and a reminder of the role of local journalism in today’s world.

For more information, contact RHCJC Community Engagement Specialist Ame Posey at ame.posey@usm.com or 601.266.5596.

Event Schedule at a Glance:

Wednesday, February 18

• 6:30–7:30 p.m. | "Truth on Trial" Panel Discussion

Thursday, February 19

• 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | RHCJC Live: Real Stories and Skills

Friday, February 20

• 6–7:15 p.m. | A Night of Stories That Matter with Rick Cleveland + Reception

About the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center

The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center is dedicated to enhancing the media landscape in Southeast Mississippi by prioritizing impactful people-centered, issue-oriented reporting, combating mis- and disinformation, fostering the growth and development of student journalists, and strengthening media partnerships. Our mission is to empower local voices, support accurate and critical journalism through media literacy, provide hands-on coaching to emerging media professionals, and collaborate with regional media organizations to build a more informed and engaged community. Established in 2025, the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center is based at the University of Southern Mississippi’s School of Media and Communication and is supported by a grant from the Scripps Howard Foundation. For more information, visit the website.