Journalism and Mass Communication Project

Departmental History: The First 40 Years

A History of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at St. Bonaventure University from it's Infancy to Renowned Program: 1940s to the 1980s

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication was started by one man: Dr. Russell J. Jandoli, who built it from a tiny, nascent program into one of the most well-known and esteemed departments at St. Bonaventure University and around the country. In large part due to Jandoli's tireless efforts to constantly improve and expand, the Department quickly grew.

While St. Bonaventure was one of the first colleges in the country in the United States to offer journalism, and the first Catholic college in the East, it wasn't until 1949 that the university officially established the department.

Decade by decade, the program grew into what it is today. The following are links allowing the viewer to see the change within the department as time went on. Below that are links giving a brief explanation of programs within or associated with the jouralism department and providing the viewer opportunities to further their searches.

 

 

Evolution by Decade

 

1940s: One Man and a Dream- The Beginning of The Department of Journalism as it's Known Today
1950s: Growing Pains and the Push for Expansion
1960s: Coming Into It's Own and Increased National Exposure
1970s: Growth and Change-What's In a Name?
1980s: Establishment and Reflection-Looking Back While Marching Forward

 

Programs Within and Associated with the Department