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College of Human Development, Culture, and Media
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The Society of Professional Journalists

Seton Hall Chapter

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) is the nation's most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry through the daily work of its roughly 6,000 members. SPJ inspires and educates current and future journalists through professional development; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press through its advocacy efforts.

Highlights

The goal of SPJ is to support the role of journalists in providing vital information in an accurate, comprehensive, timely and understandable manner.

Its mission is to: 

  • Promote the flow of such information. 
  • Maintain constant vigilance in the protection of the First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and of the press. 
  • Stimulate high standards and ethical behavior in the practice of journalism. 
  • Foster excellence among journalists. 
  • Inspire successive generations of talented individuals to become dedicated journalists. 
  • Encourage diversity in journalism. 
  • Be the pre-eminent, broad-based membership organization for journalists. 
  • Encourage a climate in which journalism can be practiced freely.

Benefits

  • Receive career support; make local connections; explore industry trends.
  • Get access to members-only website features such as: international journalism communities, on-demand training videos and webinars; the SPJ Freelancer Directory. 
  • Attend the annual SPJ Excellence in Journalism Conference.

Contact Us

While SPJ is based in the Journalism Program of the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media, all interested Seton Hall University students are welcome to join the Seton Hall Chapter. For more information or to get involved, please contact SPJ adviser, Dr. Matthew Pressman, at matthew.pressman@shu.edu.