Jesus Ayala

Jesús Ayala is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Journalism & Public Relations at California State University, Long Beach. With over 20 years of professional journalism experience, including roles as a news producer for ABC News broadcasts like World News Tonight and Good Morning America, he specializes in broadcast journalism, multimedia production, international reporting, and trauma-informed newsgathering.

Education

• University of California, Berkeley (B.A.)
• University of Southern California Annenberg School of Journalism (M.A.)

Research Interests: Ayala is a leading expert on mental health, burnout, and trauma exposure in the journalism industry, drawing from his own diagnosis of PTSD after reporting from hostile environments. His work emphasizes ethical, trauma-informed practices in newsgathering.

Scientific Awards & Recognitions

• 4 National Emmys
• 7 Edward R. Murrow Awards
• 2022 College Media Association recognition as a top broadcast adviser

Advising & Leadership: Ayala serves as Director of Beach TV News, overseeing nationally awarded student media. He has mentored students who have won over 70 national collegiate journalism awards, including student Emmys, Hearst Awards, and the Pacemaker Award. He also judges major journalism awards like the Golden Mike and News & Documentary Emmys.