The National Association of Black Journalists just gave a significant award to James McJunkins Sr., a determined Clark Atlanta University professor who has made his mark at the school for over 40 years. At a time where journalists are under attack like never before, he has taken a stand to pave a way for those coming behind him. See the release from Clark Atlanta below for more details!
McJunkins is a professor of journalism and media studies at Clark Atlanta University and this year’s recipient of the Educator of the Year award from the National Association of Black Journalists.
As a black journalist himself, McJunkins has stressed the need for more Black voices in the profession to his students throughout his 45-year career. He does this by highlighting the low number of Black journalists and the differences in the way news stories about different races are covered.
“We have to tell our own story,” McJunkins said. “We need people in position to make important decisions about news coverage.
Professor McJunkins’ impact has spread far beyond the classroom. He has served as the director for Clark Atlanta University’s study-abroad program for Jamaica for more than 25 years. Through this program he encourages students to expand their horizons and distinguish themselves from their peers.
“Just having a degree does not mean you will have a job; you have to do something that is different and dare to be different,” McJunkins said.
McJunkins credits his own desire to pursue a career in journalism to the influence of one of his high school teachers, Mr. Freeman Jones. Jones convinced McJunkins to begin writing for the school newspaper, the same newspaper in which he would later become editor.
Being recognized by the NABJ as this year’s Educator of the Year is an honor that McJunkins cherishes dearly. Although he is not in this line of work for the recognition, he appreciates the honor.
“It means so much to me,” he said. “It feels good to be recognized for your hard work, and this is one of the biggest rewards I have ever received.”
Professor McJunkins was recognized for his outstanding achievements in journalism during the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) virtual awards ceremony on the night of December 19, 2020.
