Professor of
Mass Communications Jane Paley believes educators can learn a
lot from their students, and she has certainly learned a lot as a
professor in St. John’s College of
Professional Studies, “Teaching at St. John’s has exposed me to
many diverse cultural, racial and ethnic points of view. That has
been a great gift, professionally and personally.”
Before coming to St. John’s, Professor Paley spent 11 years at
ABC where she was the network spokesperson on educational issues
and the Executive Producer of "ABC Notebook," a series of
documentaries for teenagers. She received five Emmy nominations and
garnered one. As an independent writer/producer, she created
programming for HBO, PBS and Court TV as well as designing and
implementing a television series and public service campaign for
ABC. But Paley’s desire to teach stemmed from her childhood, “My
parents valued education and encouraged me to learn when I was
young so I could teach when I grew up.”
Professor Paley is currently teaching a class at the University
called Electing a President in the Media: “Naturally, campaign
issues are controversial and provoke strong feelings. The class is
diverse and is constantly evaluating the issues from a multitude of
perspectives. Their debates are exciting and often intense.
Teaching the class has encouraged me to re-examine my own beliefs
and in some cases I have modified them.”
The University’s dedication to serving the community and the
compassionate nature of the students are what brought Professor
Paley to St. John’s: “This year, one of my classes is in charge of
planning and implementing a University-wide holiday toy drive.
We’ve set a goal of collecting 500 toys for local children in need.
St. John’s students are caring and mindful of the University’s Vincentian
mission and values. In that respect, I think it is a very
special place.”
Professor Paley insists that students in the College of
Professional Studies take advantage of everything St. John’s has to
offer, including taking advantage of knowledgeable and experienced
faculty and staff, “This is the time in your life to explore many
options in our Department. Take advantage of us.
Ask questions. Dig deep.”
In addition to teaching at the University, Professor Paley is
currently in the process of writing a children's book based on her
real life rescue of a dog in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina who
she named Hooper.