Robert Hernandez

Robert Hernandez is a Professor of Professional Practice of Journalism at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, specializing in merging emerging technologies with journalism practices. He is known for pioneering 'JOVRNALISM,' a student-driven initiative producing award-winning AR/VR and immersive content. His work focuses on empowering journalists through innovations like wearables, drones, and interactive storytelling platforms.

Education and Affiliations: Affiliated with the Center on Public Diplomacy and the Annenberg Innovation Lab. Holds professional experience at seattletimes.com, SFGate.com, and La Prensa Gráfica. Served on boards for organizations like Chicas Poderosas and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists.

Research Interests: Crossroads of technology and journalism, including digital media ethics, immersive storytelling, and media innovation. Advocates for diversity in journalism through initiatives like the Diversify Journalism Project. Explores audience engagement, revenue models, and community-driven reporting.

Awards: Recipient of SPJ’s 2015 Distinguished Teaching Award and NAHJ’s 2018 Si Se Puede Award. Notable wins include Webby Awards for 'My People, Our Stories' and 'The Deported: Life Beyond the Border.'

Advising and Projects: Advises JOVRNALISM student teams and teaches courses like 'Hands-on Disruption: Experimenting with Emerging Technology.' Collaborates with major media outlets including Al Jazeera and The New York Times. Leads the Journalism 360 program.

Labs and Teams: Active in the Annenberg Innovation Lab, exploring tech-driven storytelling solutions. Co-founded #wjchat, a Twitter-based journalism discussion forum.