Reintroducing UMABJ: The University of Mississippi Association of Black Journalists
by Kayla Foster
UMABJ, the University of Mississippi’s newly reinstated chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists, is paving the way for aspiring journalists with fresh initiatives, professional development opportunities, and a strong foundation for the future.
Reintroducing UMABJ: The University of Mississippi Association of Black Journalists
The University of Mississippi Association of Black Journalists (UMABJ) has been reinstated as an affiliate chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). The chapter was officially reestablished on Nov. 22, 2024, under the leadership of Advisor Larz Roberts and President Kayla Foster.
NABJ, the largest organization for journalists of color, was founded in 1975 in Washington, D.C., to provide members with career development, educational opportunities, and professional support worldwide. After two years of inactivity and a loss of chapter records, UMABJ is back as one of three student chapters in Mississippi.
UMABJ functions as an affinity group within the University of Mississippi’s School of Journalism and New Media and operates under the S. Gale Denley Student Media Center (SMC). The SMC provides students with hands-on experience in both traditional and emerging media, along with the technology behind them.
“NABJ is invaluable for several reasons. It’s a natural resource for networking and contacts. When you’re a student just about to begin your career, there’s no better way to get introduced to a collection of professionals who serve as mentors and scouts for career opportunities,” said Roberts.
Roberts, UMABJ’s advisor and the current director of the SMC, has an extensive background in journalism and media. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University, an HBCU, and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Mississippi. With experience in media leadership roles, he is well-positioned to mentor students pursuing careers in mass media and communications.
“There are scholarships, internships, professional development and training. Plus, a professional association is a must on a résumé. Employers look for practical experience and professional affiliations like NABJ, SPJ, or PRSSA,” Roberts added.
When Roberts assumed the director role in 2022, he discovered that UMABJ’s records and chapter information had been lost due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. After 18 months of drafting a new constitution and bylaws, regaining affiliation with the national organization, and receiving support from the university and an “armful of enthusiastic students,” UMABJ has made its comeback.
“There was no doubt UMABJ was going to find its footing again, and here they are,” Roberts said.
UMABJ President Kayla Foster, who is pursuing a master’s degree in journalism at the University of Mississippi, is a graduate of HBCU Rust College in Holly Springs. She also serves as the SMC’s Rebel Radio station manager and previously held the position of NABJ chapter president at Rust College. Foster was selected to represent Rust College as a student journalist at the HBCU White House Initiative, hosted by Senior Advisor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Alongside Roberts and other founding members, the chapter is focused on building a pathway to excellence, creating opportunities for students to gain experience and network in the field of journalism and mass media.
After a busy first semester of recruiting members, electing an executive board, establishing a mission and initiatives, and planning events and projects for spring 2025, UMABJ has solidified its presence on campus.
The organization has launched a newsletter, podcast productions, career networking initiatives, and panel discussions. Members are also collaborating with other SMC organizations, including the Yearbook, Rebel Radio, The Daily Mississippian, and the NewsWatch daily newscast.
“If the last couple of months are any indication, the chapter’s future is wide open. From the first few meetings, this group has focused on setting a strong foundation for the short, mid, and long term. They’re ambitious and excited. I’m really looking forward to what UMABJ will achieve,” Roberts said.
UMABJ is committed to making a lasting impact on aspiring journalists and those who engage with the organization.
To learn more about UMABJ, connect with us on social media to stay updated on events and opportunities.