Rod Hicks

Rod Hicks has extensive work experience in journalism and media, with a focus on editing, news management, and professional development. Rod has served as the Director of Ethics and Diversity at the Society of Professional Journalists since January 2021. Prior to that, they worked as a Journalist on Call for the organization, where they conducted research on news literacy and authored a report on recommendations for news organizations to regain trust.

Before joining the Society of Professional Journalists, Rod worked as a Writing Instructor and Writing Coach as a self-employed individual. Rod also gained significant experience at the Associated Press as an East Desk Editor, where they edited news stories and managed social media engagement.

Rod has been actively involved with the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) as a Convention Chairman, responsible for planning and executing three conventions that drew thousands of attendees. Rod has also held positions at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, The Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, Courier-Post, and Birmingham Post-Herald, where they worked as a News Editor, Suburban Editor, Night Oakland Editor, Night Metro Editor, Night City Editor, and Reporter respectively.

Additionally, Rod has shared their expertise as an Adjunct Professor at Talladega College. Overall, their work experience showcases a diverse range of roles in journalism, including leadership, editing, research, and teaching.

Rod Hicks completed their Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication at The University of Alabama. Rod further pursued their education by completing a Master of Science in Journalism with a field of study in Newspaper Management at Northwestern University. The specific start and end years for each program are not provided.