Renowned Journalist Steve Inskeep Kicks Off NIU Lecture Series

The Northern Illinois University (NIU) College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will launch its 2025-2026 Rebuilding Democracy Lecture Series with a discussion featuring Steve Inskeep, host of NPR’s Morning Edition. This free lecture is scheduled for 7 p.m. on September 23, 2025, and will be conducted online via Zoom. Registration is necessary to attend and must be completed by the same date.

To register for this event, interested individuals can visit go.niu.edu/Rebuilding-Democracy-RSVP. Inskeep will engage in a pivotal conversation with Robert Brinkmann, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The discussion will cover critical topics including the state of freedom of the press, the current challenges facing democracy, the breakdown of civil discourse, and the media’s essential role in sustaining democratic values.

Insights from a Veteran Journalist

Steve Inskeep is not only known for his role on Morning Edition but also as the co-host of the morning news podcast Up First. His extensive reporting has encompassed significant global issues, such as economic shifts, geopolitics, and human migration. Inskeep has authored several books, including Instant City: Life and Death in Karachi, Jacksonland, and Differ If We Must: How Lincoln Succeeded in a Divided America.

In addition to his broadcast work, Inskeep has contributed to esteemed publications like The New York Times, Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic. His journalistic excellence has been recognized with the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award and multiple Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Silver Batons.

Promoting Democratic Values

The Rebuilding Democracy Lecture Series at NIU aims to highlight the integral role of the liberal arts and sciences in fostering a healthy democracy. The series seeks to explore various facets of building a stronger democratic society while addressing issues contributing to social fragmentation.

This event promises to be an insightful opportunity for attendees to engage with pressing topics related to democracy and the media. The evening will include a moderated question and answer session, providing participants with a chance to interact directly with Inskeep and Brinkmann.

As the world continues to grapple with challenges to democratic institutions, the insights shared during this lecture may provide valuable perspectives for both students and community members alike.