Celebrating our Communication School:
Past, Present, and Future
The University of Miami School of Communication is celebrating 40 years of educating storytellers, strategists, journalists, filmmakers, and creators who shape how we connect and communicate.
Since its founding in 1985, the School has grown into one of the top communication programs in the country and is home to award-winning faculty, industry-connected programs, and a vibrant community of students and alumni.
To mark this milestone, the School hosted a special celebration on April 8, 2025, beginning with a student and faculty showcase and culminating in an evening program at the Cosford Cinema. From honoring visionary leaders and beloved professors to recognizing standout alumni, the event was a reflection of the School’s legacy and future.
This page will continue to serve as a home for 40th Anniversary celebrations, photos, and stories throughout the year as we reflect on four decades of excellence and look ahead to the next.
Dr. Josephine Johnson transformed what was once the Department of Communication into the School of Communication.
Dr. Josephine Johnson transformed what was once the Department of Communication into the School of Communication.
Maribel Perez Wadsworth, B.S.C. '93 and President and CEO of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation presented a journalism education impact award to Professor Tsitsi Wakhisi.
Maribel Perez Wadsworth, B.S.C. '93 and President and CEO of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation presented a journalism education impact award to Professor Tsitsi Wakhisi.
Alumni Honorees Reflect the School's Legacy
The School of Communication recognized 19 distinguished alumni whose achievements span decades, industries, and continents. From graduates of the School’s inaugural year to those making their mark today, the honorees exemplify the excellence, creativity, and leadership that define a SoC education.
Sara Thomas, B.S.C. '05 was one of the SoC alumni honored on April 8th.
Sara Thomas, B.S.C. '05 was one of the SoC alumni honored on April 8th.
"It’s so exciting to see the School of Communication hit a milestone birthday! When I graduated, it felt like a small family just beginning to come to life. Over the last 20 years, it’s blossomed - alumni are working in high-caliber jobs, and the depth of experience the school provides is just fantastic."
Honorees included professionals in television, film, journalism, digital media, public relations, and academia, each one shaping the way we communicate and connect. Among them were Barry Waldman, B.A. ’85, a veteran television and film producer; Caitlin Atkinson, B.S.C. ’17, Director of Program Planning & Scheduling at Peacock; and husband-and-wife duo Carolyn Cefalo, B.S.C. ’76, M.S.Ed. ’83 and Charles H. Horich, B.A. ’63, who began their careers before the School’s founding.
These alumni were honored on stage at the Cosford Cinema, each receiving a medallion in recognition of their contributions to the industry and the lasting legacy they carry forward as representatives of the School.
The celebration was emceed by Javier Morgado, B.S.C. ’98, a longtime network news executive whose connection to the School runs deep, from his early days at The Miami Hurricane and UMTV to his current role on the Dean’s Advisory Committee. Morgado brought humor, warmth, and insight to the event, reminding the audience that the School’s legacy is rooted in its people: students, faculty, and alumni who have shaped and been shaped by the School over the last four decades.
Honoree Barry Waldman, A.B. '85 was joined at the Cosford Cinema celebration by his son.
Honoree Barry Waldman, A.B. '85 was joined at the Cosford Cinema celebration by his son.
"It’s amazing to come back and see all the equipment and techniques being used to train the next generation. We used to make movies on 16mm film. Now look at what students are doing - it’s incredible!"
A highlight of the evening was the premiere of a documentary created by Ali Habashi, associate professor of professional practice of cinematic arts, which traced the School’s journey from its early beginnings to its present-day status as one of the top communication programs in the country. The film offered a powerful reflection on the milestones, visionaries, and stories that built the School of Communication, and set the tone for its future.
Open House Highlights SoC Talent and Innovation
Before the evening celebration at Cosford Cinema, the School of Communication hosted an Open House that gave alumni, guests, and members of the UM community a chance to explore the School’s spaces and see its work firsthand. Visitors toured classrooms, studios, labs, and collaborative spaces while engaging with students and faculty from all five departments.
"I’m really proud of our school. I’m a third-generation University of Miami student, my grandpa went here before the School of Communication even existed.It is easily one of the most technologically advanced schools in the country, and they spare no expense for us."
Each department curated a showcase of achievements from groundbreaking research and creative projects to student-run media and award-winning campaigns. Clubs and organizations such as Orange Umbrella, the Debate Club, and The Miami Hurricane were also on hand to share how students gain professional experience in real-world environments. The Open House served not only as a celebration of past successes, but as a glimpse into the exciting future of the School of Communication.
"I think 40 is the perfect age. It's when you finally gain the wisdom to be truly smart and dangerous in life. For the School of Communication, this is the moment of clarity, when we know who we are and where we’re going. We have the support, the students, the gear it’s go time. This is when the real game begins.”
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