2025 Parry D. Sorensen Distinguished Lecture with Jennifer Napier-Pearce
Presented by the Edna Anderson-Taylor Communication Institute
The Department of Communication was honored to host the 2025 Parry D. Sorensen Distinguished Lecture on Thursday, April 10, featuring esteemed journalist and communications strategist Jennifer Napier-Pearce. Known for her thoughtful journalism and deep engagement with public discourse, Napier-Pearce brought a unique perspective to this year’s event, which drew students, faculty, alumni, and members of the broader community.
The day’s programming was thoughtfully divided into two dynamic segments. The afternoon began with an exclusive student Q&A session, offering communication majors and student journalists an intimate opportunity to engage directly with Napier-Pearce. The conversation ranged from the future of journalism and the ethical challenges of the digital media landscape to strategies for fostering civil discourse in an era of polarization.
The evening featured a public lecture and reception. In her keynote, Napier-Pearce addressed the evolving role of media in shaping democratic societies, the power of storytelling in civic life, and the responsibilities of both journalists and citizens in preserving truth and trust. Her talk prompted a lively post-lecture dialogue among attendees and contributed to a sense of shared purpose across generations and disciplines.
Both segments of the event were met with enthusiastic participation and sparked meaningful conversations, reinforcing the Department’s mission to foster community, critical thinking, and engaged citizenship through communication.
The Department of Communication extends its deepest gratitude to the Sorensen Family for their continued support in making this annual event possible. Their generosity ensures that the legacy of Parry D. Sorensen lives on by bringing thought leaders to campus who challenge and inspire.
About the Speaker
Jennifer Napier-Pearce is a veteran journalist and communications leader whose career
spans print, radio, and public service. Most recently, she served as senior advisor
and director of communications for Utah Governor Spencer Cox, where she contributed
to the nationally recognized “Disagree Better” initiative aimed at improving civic
dialogue.
Prior to her time in government, Napier-Pearce served as executive editor of The Salt Lake Tribune, where she led the newspaper through its groundbreaking transition to a nonprofit—the first legacy daily in the U.S. to take that step. Her previous work includes award-winning reporting and leadership roles at KUER and KCPW. Known for her mission-driven approach, Napier-Pearce is committed to public service, innovative media strategies, and building strong community-focused institutions.
Her lecture will explore the evolving relationship between journalism and civic engagement in an era of rapid change and heightened polarization. With experience at the crossroads of media, policy, and public trust, Napier-Pearce brings valuable insight to today’s most pressing communication challenges.
For more information, please contact the Department of Communication.
We look forward to welcoming you to next year’s Sorensen Lecture.