Parry D. Sorensen Distinguished Lecture with Jennifer Napier-Pearce
Presented by the Edna Anderson-Taylor Communication Institute
The Department of Communication is pleased to announce the 2025 Parry D. Sorensen Distinguished Lecture, featuring journalist and communications strategist Jennifer Napier-Pearce. The event will take place on Thursday, April 10, and includes two segments: an exclusive student Q&A in the afternoon and a public lecture and reception in the evening.
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.
Student-Only Q&A Session
Date: Thursday, April 10
Time: 12:30–1:15 PM
Location: Edna Anderson-Taylor Communication Institute (LNCO 2910)
Moderator: Vanessa Hudson, Editor-in-Chief, The Daily Utah Chronicle
This student-exclusive event offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with Jennifer Napier-Pearce in an informal Q&A format. Moderated by Vanessa Hudson, the session will focus on the realities of working in journalism today, how the field is shifting, and what students can do to prepare for careers in media and public communication. Students from all majors are welcome to attend.
Evening Lecture, Q&A, and Reception
Date: Thursday, April 10
Time: 6:30–8:00 PM
Location: Edna Anderson-Taylor Communication Institute (LNCO 2910)
Please note: The event may be relocated to the auditorium if capacity is exceeded.
RSVP Required: Register on Eventbrite
The evening portion of the event is open to students, faculty, staff, and the general public. It will include a formal lecture by Napier-Pearce, followed by a Q&A session and a reception. Her talk will address the changing role of media in democratic society and the importance of civic discourse in journalism and beyond.
This year’s lecture reflects the mission of the Edna Anderson-Taylor Communication Institute and honors the Sorensen family’s commitment to advancing dialogue around the future of media and public service. We invite all members of the university and broader community to attend and participate in this important conversation.
For more information, please contact the Department of Communication.
We look forward to welcoming you to this year’s Sorensen Lecture.