Sean K. Campbell Joins Howard U. Journalism Center

Howard University is stepping up its game in investigative journalism education! The esteemed institution announced that nationally recognized investigative reporter Sean K. Campbell is joining its Center for Journalism & Democracy as a Visiting Professor for the 2025-2026 academic year. This marks the second year of this vital program, founded by the incredible Nikole Hannah-Jones, aimed at expanding investigative journalism training for HBCU students.

Building on a Legacy of Journalistic Excellence

Howard University’s Cathy Hughes School of Communications has a long-standing reputation for nurturing Black journalists who go on to shape the media landscape. With Campbell’s arrival, students will gain invaluable access to his expertise in data-driven investigative reporting—a skill set that’s more crucial than ever in today’s complex media environment.

The Center for Journalism & Democracy is committed to producing reporting that is both historically informed and driven by accountability. Campbell’s teaching and mentorship are set to significantly bolster this mission, equipping Howard students with the skills needed to uncover truths, hold powerful institutions accountable, and foster positive change within their communities.

Impactful Courses and Wider Reach

This fall, Campbell will be teaching two key courses. First, ‘Data-Driven Stories,’ which will guide students on how to transform raw data into compelling narratives. Second, ‘Truth Be Told,’ co-taught with journalist Erika Blount, where students will hone their fact-checking skills and produce reporting specifically relevant to Black communities. The fruits of their labor will be published on TruthBeTold.news, Howard’s own student-powered news platform.

Campbell’s influence won’t be confined to Howard’s campus. In the spring, he’ll extend his teaching to Morgan State University, offering data journalism courses. This expansion is a key part of the Center’s broader mission to strengthen investigative journalism education across HBCUs nationwide.

A Career Dedicated to Uncovering Truths

Sean K. Campbell brings a wealth of experience to his role. His career has been marked by investigations into critical issues such as racism within Doctors Without Borders, the often-hidden toll of deaths in nursing homes, and the illegal flow of firearms. He also contributed a lead feature to New York Magazine’s award-winning “Ten Years Since Trayvon” issue.

For Howard students, learning from a professor with such a distinguished investigative background means gaining not just the technical skills to find facts, but also the ability to craft resonant narratives that can shape national conversations.

Strengthening the HBCU Investigative Journalism Consortium

Campbell’s professorship also plays a vital role in Howard’s larger vision: building a robust network of HBCUs committed to investigative journalism. The Center for Journalism & Democracy collaborates with several institutions, including:

• Florida A&M University
• Morehouse College
• Morgan State University
• North Carolina A&T State University
• North Carolina Central University
• Savannah State University
• Texas Southern University
• University of the District of Columbia

This consortium ensures that valuable investigative journalism resources and mentorship are accessible to HBCU students well beyond the walls of Howard University.

Investing in the Future of Journalism

Sean K. Campbell’s appointment signifies more than just adding another faculty member; it represents a significant investment in the next generation of truth-tellers. Students at Howard and its partner HBCUs will learn to ask tougher questions, analyze deeper patterns, and produce stories that challenge power structures and shift narratives.

As Howard University continues its leadership in cultivating groundbreaking Black journalists, the addition of Professor Campbell ensures the university remains at the cutting edge of journalism education, while simultaneously uplifting and empowering HBCU students across the nation.