Freshman Michelle Pratt said she thinks it will be interesting to listen to a speaker with extensive experience in journalism and politics. I would love to hear what she has to say about all the different presidents. Pratt said hearing such a strong woman speak is a great opportunity for University students. Karon Speckman, assistant professor of communication, said there are many reasons for students to attend Helen Thomas' presentation. Parker said it is important in a liberal arts education to learn how to be a good citizen, and Thomas will be able to tell people how to be better informed.
Many people think that news is very straightforward and, instead, it is very subjective.
Parker said journalists affect the way we all receive information. Bob Jones, co-chairman of the Kohlenberg Lyceum series and head of the fine arts division, said Thomas' background was not the only thing the committee considered before issuing an invitation to have her as a guest speaker. Jones said the committee tries to find someone who appeals to a broad range of people. She is very knowledgeable in a wide range of topics, has national prominence and has been very successful. Jones said he does not know how much it cost to bring Thomas to campus, but he said the Lyceum Series shared the expense with the Kirk-Baldwin Society, and it fit into the budget.