The UO School of Journalism and Communication has named Regina Lawrence director of the George S. Turnbull Portland Center, effective July 20.

Lawrence will join the school right away, moderating the opening plenary session at the “What is Journalism?” conference on Friday, April 10.

Since 2012, Lawrence has served as the director of the Annette Strauss Institute for Civic Life at The University of Texas at Austin, where she also held the Jesse H. Jones Centennial Chair in the School of Journalism, Moody College of Communication.

“The future of journalism and the future of civic engagement are closely intertwined, although too often these are treated as separate endeavors,” Lawrence said.  “Helping journalism innovate across many genres and platforms to reach more people in new ways is vital to enriching civic life. I’m thrilled by the opportunity to help push that conversation forward, especially in the vibrant community of Portland.”

In her new role, Lawrence will lead the SOJC’s Turnbull Center’s strategic and innovative interdisciplinary programs, community and industry outreach, alumni engagement, fundraising, student recruitment and partnerships.

 “With her ties to the professional and civic communities and her extraordinary scholarly depth, Regina Lawrence is the perfect leader for this moment at the Turnbull and Agora centers,” said Julie Newton, interim Edwin L. Artzt Dean and SOJC professor. “She brings unique passion and vision for advancing journalism’s mission to engage the public and nourish democracy.”

To read the full story, see “SOJC announces new leadership for Turnbull and Agora Journalism Centers.”