University of Mississippi journalism professor R.J. Morgan was recognized on April 6 for his contributions to journalism education, receiving the James F. Paschal Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association at its annual awards luncheon in New York City.
The award acknowledges Morgan’s leadership of the Mississippi Scholastic Press Association (MSPA) and his broader influence on scholastic journalism both in Mississippi and across the nation.
Larry Steinmetz, Journalism Education Association state director for Kentucky, nominated Morgan after collaborating with him through national and regional initiatives. “R.J. is someone who just gets it,” Steinmetz said. “From the very beginning, he understood how to build programs, support educators and make organizations stronger.” He added: “What he’s done for scholastic journalism in Mississippi is remarkable, he’s helped turn it into a powerhouse while constantly finding new ways to connect and elevate advisers and students.”
Morgan serves on the Journalism Education Association certification committee and teaches courses that prepare teachers nationwide for professional advancement. At Ole Miss, he leads MSPA efforts by expanding annual conventions, educator training programs, and partnerships that benefit both teachers and students statewide.
“Scholastic journalism was the most impactful part of my own education,” Morgan said. “It gave me a place to grow, to express myself and to take ownership of my work.” He continued: “Everything I’ve tried to do as a teacher and through MSPA has been about creating those same opportunities for students and supporting the educators who make that possible.”
Since becoming MSPA director, Morgan has strengthened long-term sustainability by building an endowment funding professional development opportunities for teachers across Mississippi. Initiatives such as the Overby Adviser Institute have fostered community among educators while increasing national recognition for local teachers.
Bill Cassidy, chair of the Department of Journalism at Ole Miss, said: “Dr. Morgan’s dedication and hard work for MSPA is a shining example of his commitment to the future of journalism.” Cassidy added: “Through his efforts, he has provided high school students and instructors from across the state access to resources here in the School of Journalism and New Media.” Tony Pederson from The Overby Center called Morgan’s work with MSPA “incredibly valuable” noting that relationships built with high schools are vital not only to Ole Miss but also align with longstanding support from The Overby Center itself.
Morgan’s career began as a student journalist at Pearl High School before working as section editor at The Reflector (Mississippi State University) then serving as adviser at Starkville High School prior to joining Ole Miss faculty ranks. Beyond MSPA duties he founded Integrated Marketing Communications Association broadening media opportunities further.
Reflecting on receiving this year’s James F. Paschal Award, Morgan said: “Learning is in the doing,” adding: “Journalism gives students ownership, responsibility and a voice… When you create those environments… you’re not just teaching journalism; you’re helping shape more thoughtful engaged citizens.”
