Jason Akst

Jason Akst is a Lecturer in the Department of Communication at Northern Illinois University, teaching courses including Basic News Writing, Article Writing, Public Relations Writing, and News Editing with over 30 years of professional and academic experience in journalism and public relations.

He earned a master's degree in journalism from The University of Texas at Austin and a bachelor's degree in English from West Texas A&M University.

His research focuses on practical communication techniques, specifically reporting and interviewing methodologies, humor writing applications, and social media integration within public relations strategies.

Mr. Akst has received significant recognition for his teaching excellence:

• University’s Excellence in Undergraduate Instruction award (2016)

Professionally, he serves as Grievance Officer for the NIU Chapter of the University Professionals of Illinois and Executive Secretary for the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association, while maintaining active membership in the Society of Professional Journalists and Public Relations Society of America.