University News

Siddiqi Named Interim English & Journalism Chair

September 4, 2009

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MACOMB, IL -- Longtime Western Illinois University Journalism Professor Mohammad Siddiqi was appointed interim chair of the English and Journalism department July 1, according to Western Illinois University College of Arts and Sciences Interim Dean Susan Martinelli-Fernandez.

Siddiqi joined Western's faculty in Fall 1987, teaching public relations, international press and research methods. He is the author of "Islam, Muslims and Media: Myths and Realities" (1997) and "Islam: A Contemporary Perspective" (1993). Siddiqi has also authored numerous book chapters and articles in referred journals. In addition to his teaching duties, he serves as faculty adviser to the WIU Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Prior to his appointment as interim chair, Siddiqi was the director of journalism program in the department.

"As interim chair, my goals are to help faculty achieve excellence in teaching, research and service, serve student's needs as best as possible and help strengthen our various programs and units, "Siddiqi said.

Siddiqi is a member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA); a life member of the International Association of Media and Communication Research (IAMCR); and serves as an editorial board member of the Journal of Arab & Muslim Media Research, UK; Journal of Media Studies, Pakistan; and the Journal of the Global Communication Research Association.

"Dr. Siddiqi's appointment ensures a seamless transition for the department. His experience will allow him to effectively lead the English and Journalism department and continue its commitment to excellence," said Martinelli-Fernandez.

Siddiqi received his doctorate degree from Temple University; his master's degree from the University of Illinois-Chicago; and a master's degree in physics from Aligarh Muslim University in India. He has extensively traveled more than 30 countries of the world lecturing and conducting workshops on media issues, Islam and media in the Middle East, South Asia and Southeast Asia.






Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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