“The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication dedicates itself to the study and practice of mass communication. It does this within the context of the liberal education tradition and the Franciscan character of St. Bonaventure University. The department commits itself to the intellectual and spiritual development of students who will bring ethical values into personal and professional life. The curriculum blends the liberal arts with the development of professional skills in journalism, public relations, electronic communication and advertising. Through teaching, research and service the faculty advances knowledge and prepares students for leadership in a complex technological environment within a global community. The department is committed to freedom of expression and academic freedom.”

--Excerpt from the Journalism and Mass Communication Mission Statement, 1992.

Mission Statement Themes

The Mission Statements of the Journalism and Mass Communication Department between 1987 and 1992 held similar themes. The Department emphasized preparing its students for a career in journalism and other forms of media such as broadcast news, radio, television, and sports writing. The Department also stressed an importance for gaining more international students into the program, as well as more diversification within the faculty. The mission statements also discussed the importance of teaching its students important Franciscan values which could influence a student’s moral and ethical development. These elements would allow the students an education in proper skills and knowledge while also developing strong personal values, leadership, and professionalism.

Departmental Mission Statement Draft, 1987

In a draft of the Department’s Mission Statement written in April 1987, goals for the Department were outlined. The Department identified with the goal to prepare its students in the working field. Specifically they wanted a strong foundation in writing and editing, allowing successful work in print or broadcast. The core of the required courses were to train skills in areas of interest such as broadcasting, public relations, magazines, and advertising.

Mission Statement, 1988

“Realizing that the field of mass communication today has created the 'global village,' we feel our department’s program enhances the goal of internationalization as expressed by the University. And, through greater implementation of our satellite facility and perhaps the addition of a course in 'international communication,' we intend to expand that part of our program in the future”

–Excerpt from 1998 Journalism and Mass Communication Department Mission Statement

The Department also wanted to focus on incorporating Franciscan values into the curriculum. Furthermore, an increase in faculty with an effort to hire more women would help diversify the Department.

Mission Statement, 1992

Some of the important missions for the Department of Journalism focused on teaching, research, and professional service. They wanted students to be educated on ethics, and verbal and visual skills that would be necessary in the professional field of journalism. They also wanted the faculty to be more involved in research, such as in the operation, effects, and ethics of journalism and mass communication. These faculty aims were meant to provide good professional services that would lead the students into improving their skills.

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