Jon Bekken

Jon Bekken is a Professor of Communication at Albright College and Faculty Advisor for The Albrightian, the school's newspaper. He holds a PhD from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, an MA from the University of Michigan, and a BA from the University of California at San Diego. His research focuses on communications law, media history, and the political economy of media, with a particular emphasis on labor movements within media industries.

Dr. Bekken's work spans multiple disciplines, including journalism studies, labor history, and anarchist economic theory. His publications explore topics such as public sphere theory, syndicalist movements in Spain, and the role of unions in news media. He has advised numerous student research projects, including studies on media awareness campaigns and the sociocultural impact of media forms like the Grateful Dead’s fan communities.

His teaching portfolio includes courses on media law, editing and publishing, and media history. His research often intersects with broader societal themes such as democracy, labor rights, and the evolution of media systems. While no scientific awards are explicitly mentioned, his contributions to communication and labor studies have been recognized through his extensive publication record and academic engagement.

Dr. Bekken’s advising and collaborative work demonstrate a commitment to student-driven research, particularly in applying media studies to real-world issues like dental hygiene awareness and UNICEF campaign analysis. His interdisciplinary approach bridges historical analysis with contemporary media challenges, positioning him as a key figure in Albright’s communication program.