Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication hosted an engaging fireside chat Monday, featuring Dean Mira Lowe and Jamal Sowell, the university’s Vice President of Government Relations.
The event, held in the SJGC lecture hall, brought students together for an informative discussion regarding public relations career pathways, educational advocacy and the importance of professionalism in the world of communications.
Sowell shared his journey from an aspiring pastor to military service, law school, and now advocating for FAMU’s financial needs as the university’s chief lobbyist.
Sowell’s desire to speak at the journalism school derived from the personal connection his parents had to the university.
“If it had not been for FAMU, my parents would have never met,” Sowell said. “It’s about giving back to an institution that has done so much for the state, and that is the goal that I have in terms of my past experiences.”
Sowell stressed the importance of family, undesired peer pressure and self-care in today’s popular social media era.
“It’s OK to be incognito for a season to work on yourself,” Sowell said. “You don’t have to post everything.”
He also emphasized how students can use their voices to make an impact, particularly as FAMU Day at the Capitol approaches on April 9. He strongly encouraged students to attend, highlighting the significance of showing up to support FAMU’s legislative efforts and funding initiatives.
SJGC Professor Maureen Tartaglione, who has a professional relationship with Sowell, appreciated his openness and the engagement from the students.
“I think the students were very engaged,” Tartaglione said. “I think they had some really good questions that he had to think about, and I was happy to see the participation from the group.”
Public relations student Lariel Green left the event feeling inspired about her future in public relations.
“We do not normally hear about careers on this side of PR, so I am excited to learn more about the different avenues I can take after college,” Green said.
The fireside chat was an opportunity for students to actively engage with two communication professionals, connect with classmates and learn about career readiness along the way. This event, presented on behalf of Venom Proz PR Agency, served to increase awareness about the FAMU SJGC public relations program and educate students about the industry.