By Jacquelyne Taurianen
John Seigenthaler visited the American Indian Journalism Institute for a lunch and dinner presentation to inspire the future of journalism on June 6 in Vermillion.
Starting the afternoon of with an impersonal talk, Seigenthaler discussed the role he and other media moguls played in the Civil Rights movement.
During one account, he talked about how he was knocked unconscious for a period time while trying to help two women out of a race riot. The part that truly inspires me is that he never once took full credit for his efforts in the battle. Always saying it was the “children” that changed the world.
Later in the evening Seigenthaler gave a presentation on the troubles of Wikipedia and the bad experience he and others have had. While being a college student, I have come to use the online encyclopedia for classes. However, after I heard how anyone is able to alter the information without restriction I have reconsidered the educational value of Wikipedia.
Seigenthaler told numerous stories about his experiences from accounts of pranks he played in the newsroom to his infamous first lead with not a single verb.
As a highly respected individual, I am honored to have met him and will live each day trying to live up to his quote of choice.
“Every person can make a difference and every person should try,” said Seigenthaler quoting JFK.
