In an effort to bring a quality discussion on ethics in media and journalism to Missouri State, two media, journalism and film professors are hosting a variety of panelists to converse about a recent controversy, WikiLeaks.

Dr. Mary Jane Pardue and Dr. Andy Cline, both from the media, journalism and film department, will host this conversation on media ethics in collaboration with the department and the Society of Professional Journalists on March 28 from 1-3 p.m. in Plaster Student Union 313.

For a discussion about media and journalism ethics, WikiLeaks is a perfect topic choice because the controversy has implications on real ethical decisions that are especially relevant to MJF students. WikiLeaks is an international non-profit organization that publishes submissions of private, secret and classified media from anonymous sources. The big question is, how well did the media handle it?

“We’re excited about holding this panel and hope the MSU community and residents of southwest Missouri will take this opportunity to hear an in-depth discussion of the ethical issues involved in the WikiLeaks story. While WikiLeaks is a hugely important story, perhaps equally as important is how the media handled it,” Pardue said.

Panelists will bring a variety of perspectives and opinions to the conversations. To give the media’s perspective, Executive Editor at the Springfield News-Leader David Stoeffler is included as a panelist. Faculty members from different departments will represent additional perspectives including Dr. Brian Calfano, assistant professor of political science; Dr. Daniel Kaufman, professor of philosophy; and Cline. Joy Robertson, KOLR 10 News anchor, will moderate the discussion.

The most important reason for the conversation is to highlight one of the guiding principles of the university’s public affairs mission, ethical leadership.

“We are teaching and instilling ethical leadership,” Pardue said. “It is good for all of our students to have a discussion about making decisions we would actually face after graduation.”

For those who are unable to attend the event, the conversation will be blogged and covered live online.