In recognition of their meritorious contributions to advance the Murrow College and Washington State University, Porismita Borah, Rebecca Cooney, Lisa Waananen-Jones, and Jessica Willoughby were appointed as the 2023-2025 Lester M. Smith Distinguished Professors. Recipients of the professorships demonstrate consistent service to the academy and/or the community and a dedication to creating a collegial work environment.Each will receive a $10,000 stipend annually to assist with continued research and professional development.
Lester M. Smith was a remarkably successful director of Kaye-Smith Enterprises and a founding member of the Murrow Professional Advisory Board. He established the professorships to build upon the strengths of the School of Communication in its work to prepare students for their professional careers. Professors Borah, Cooney, Waananen-Jones and Willoughby have each excelled in their contributions to the field, the University, the College and most importantly, their students. Murrow College is proud to see them recognized for their hard work and remarkable successes.