Miki Turner

Miki Turner is a Professor of Professional Practice in Journalism at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. She is an award-winning journalist, author, and educator with extensive industry experience spanning ESPN, NFL Network, MSNBC, and major newspapers. Her academic roles include directing the Minority Serving Institutions Graduate Recruitment effort, leading the Annenberg Resources and Mentoring (ARM) program, and advising the USC Photography Club. She is also actively involved in university governance, serving on the Academic Senate Executive Board and the University Club program committee.

Her research and practice focus on media industries, cultural representation, diversity initiatives, and sports journalism. Turner’s expertise bridges journalism education and real-world media production, with notable achievements including pioneering as the first African American female sports columnist at a major metropolitan daily (Oakland Tribune, 1990s) and winning photography accolades at the 2015 Florence Biennale. She has also published two authored books: Journey to the Woman I’ve Come to Love (2013) and Tomorrow (2013).

Turner’s awards highlight her contributions to education and inclusion, such as the USC Black Alumni Association’s Barbara Solomon Award (2023) and the Wyoming High School Distinguished Alumni Award (2024). Her work extends beyond academia through board memberships like Black Students of California United and the Institute for Difference and Empowerment in the Arts.