School of Journalism hosts policital program

The Reynolds School of Journalism and Center for Advanced Media Studies will examine hotly-contested races in the 2010 elections at the Jim Joyce Endowment in Political Communications program 7 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Joe Crowley Student Union Theatre.

University President Emeritus Joe Crowley will moderate "Election 2010: All Eyes on Nevada" with panelists KLVX-TV Nevada Week in Review Producer and Host Mitch Fox, UNR Political Science Department Chairman and Professor Eric Herzik,

Las Vegas Review-Journal political reporter and columnist Jane Ann Morrison and retired Associated Press capitol bureau chief, Genoa resident Brendan Riley.

"This event encourages students and the community to participate in analysis of the inner workings of politics and media, which both fascinated and inspired my father's lifelong career," said Robin Joyce, chair of the Jim Joyce Endowment and chair of the Reynolds School Dean's Council.

Joyce established the endowed event in 2007 to honor his father and to encourage debate and discussion. His timing was fortuitous. In 2008, the Nevada caucus was moved to Jan. 19, making Nevada, Iowa and New Hampshire among the first states to participate in the historic presidential campaign and November election process, which has provided opportunities for political journalists, elected officials and political insiders to explore issues, trends, election outcomes, and to discuss the future of Nevada politics.  

"This is a remarkable opportunity to hear from experienced and knowledgeable reporters and political observers," said Jerry Ceppos, Reynolds School dean. "Also, it will be a treat to watch Joe (Crowley) moderate the discussion. He is often described as Nevada's elder statesman."

Jim Joyce changed Nevada's political landscape during his 20-year career. The Reynolds School graduate managed campaigns for some 300 candidates. He lost fewer than 30.