Meteorologist Leads Events on Trust in Media and Weather Careers

NBC Boston meteorologist and distinguished U of A alum Tevin Wooten will return to campus next week to meet with students and engage the public as part the School of Journalism and Strategic Media's ethics efforts.

Wooten will speak to over 300 students in classroom, small group and one-on-one settings to discuss the role of social media in connecting with audiences, the importance of accurate coverage of climate change and the need for more young people in weather reporting.

Wooten, an Emmy Award-winning meteorologist, started his journalism career as a reporter and anchor at UATV, the campus television station. He later spent four years at The Weather Channel before moving to Boston. Among his honors is a 2022 designation in Forbes' "30 Under 30" list in the media category, which highlights young leaders and entrepreneurs "destined to change the world."

"I'm honored to return to my home state and a campus I love to promote meteorology and the field of journalism," said Wooten, who grew up in Camden. "I've spent a lot of time on the road - chasing hurricanes and other natural disasters. But Arkansas will always be home and a place that gave me my start. Nothing prides me more than being able to encourage students of Arkansas to continue their education while focusing on weather and climate."

After graduating in 2014, he spent two years at KNWA, the NBC affiliate in Fayetteville, before returning to college to pursue a second degree in earth, ocean and atmospheric science at Florida State University.

Wooten, who has the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist seal of approval from the American Meteorological Society, is being hosted next week by the SJSM Center for Media Ethics and Literacy.

"Reliable weather coverage is essential, and Tevin will be able to share experiences with students who hope to pursue careers in the growing field of weather reporting,'' said Gina Holland Shelton, the center's interim director.

Wooten will observe the UATV nightly show on Wednesday, Oct. 16, then speak to students at 7 p.m. as part of a meeting of the campus chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists in Kimpel 203H. The talk is open to anyone on campus.

He will speak to a variety of classes, including some that he took while a Razorback. Classes include: History of the Black Press, Media & Society, Multimedia Journalism, Television News I and II, and Foundations for Video News. He will also engage with leaders and students in Fulbright's Geosciences Department.

Bret Schulte, chair of the SJSM, said Wooten's enthusiasm for the Hogs and weather reporting make him the perfect guest for homecoming activities. The school will offer three opportunities to interact with Wooten on Friday, Oct. 18, as well as an open house. The state of the art Student Media Center will be open to guests arriving in town for the homecoming game against LSU.

"The timing of Tevin's visit, during an active hurricane season, illustrates the important role of media professionals. Our school is preparing young people to be leaders like Tevin,'' Schulte said.

At 9:40 a.m. on Oct. 18, Wooten will participate in a roundtable discussion with KNWA chief meteorologist Dan Skoff, a mentor, to discuss engaging the community and building trust in media through weather reporting.

At 10:45 a.m., Wooten will discuss challenges in combatting misinformation during a talk that will include earth sciences students and anyone interested in climate change reporting.

Both events will be in the UATV studio on the second floor of Kimpel Hall.

At 11:35 a.m. in Kimpel 202H, Wooten will be joined by UATV alums from his time at the U of A. Some have reporting and communications jobs around the country and will participate on Zoom.

"Arkansas provided me a diverse skillset early on in journalism and STEM aspirations. I hope to see that continue for young Arkansans," Wooten said.

About the Center for Media Ethics and Literacy: The Center for Media Ethics and Literacy was established to promote ethical practices and standards in journalism. Its mission is to provide resources, education, and support for journalists, students, educators and news consumers to foster integrity, accountability and transparency in the field. The center offers various programs aimed at enhancing literacy and ethical decision-making in journalism. It collaborates with professionals and organizations to address contemporary ethical and literacy issues in media. Visit the center's website for more information.

About the School of Journalism and Strategic Media: The School of Journalism and Strategic Media at the University of Arkansas offers full-time and part-time degree programs for undergraduates as well as a graduate master's degree program. SJSM students major in journalism or advertising and public relations, and they receive instruction, guidance and access to hands-on experience from seasoned, award-winning faculty and staff. The school is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and media literacy. The journalism program was established at the University of Arkansas by Walter J. Lemke in 1930. Visit the school's website for more information.