Voices for Change

In May 2024, Professor Uttaran Dutta of the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication addressed the United Nations at the 9th Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  As a high-level respondent, Professor Dutta shared his expertise on the transformative roles of science, technology, and innovation in addressing SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).  His participation in this prestigious event highlights the impactful work being done at the Hugh Downs School and its commitment to addressing global challenges through innovative communication strategies.

Building on his experience at the United Nations, Professor Dutta is hosting the 'Communication for Social Change' Guest Speaker Series 2024 as part of his doctoral seminar 'Communication for Social Change: Theories and Praxis' [COM 691] this fall.  The series brings together influential leaders from the United Nations and esteemed scholars from universities around the globe to discuss topics related to development communication and social change.  The "Communication for Social Change" Guest Speaker Series represents a unique opportunity for graduate students and faculty to engage with experts who are shaping discussions on critical global issues.  The series will cover a range of topics, reflecting the urgent need for innovative communication approaches in addressing societal challenges.

Students benefit from direct access to thought leaders, enhancing their educational experience and expanding their understanding of the complexities surrounding communication in a global context.  The series is open to all graduate students and faculty, fostering an inclusive environment for dialogue and knowledge sharing.  Scheduled dates and times for the guest speaker events are below. Professor Dutta encourages interested individuals to email him for more information regarding the series and its lineup of distinguished speakers.  By inviting influential global voices through initiatives like these, the Hugh Downs School reinforces its dedication to fostering impactful communication research and training future advocates for global change.

Below are the scheduled dates, times, and speakers for the 'Communication for Social Change' Guest Speaker Series:

Sept. 5  
Professor Pradip N. Thomas  
School of Communication and Arts, Communication for Development. University of Queensland

Oct. 3 
Professor Karin Wilkins 
Dean, School of Communication, Intercultural/International Development Communication University of Miami

Oct. 10  
H.E. Professor Tshilidzi Marwala 
Rector of the United Nations University; Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations

Oct. 17 
Professor Srinivas Melkote 
School of Media & Communication. Communication for Development. Bowling Green State University

Oct. 24 
H.E. Dr. Deodat Maharaj 
Managing Director at the United Nations Technology Bank, United Nations

Oct. 31 
Professor Tema Milstein 
School of Humanities & Languages, Environmental Communication. University of New South Wales

Nov. 7  
Professor Joyeeta Gupta 
Faculty Professor on Sustainability, Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research of the University of Amsterdam and IHE Delft Institute for Water Education

Nov. 14 
H.E. Ms. Melissa Fleming 
Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications Department of Global Communications, United Nations