Jason R. Piscia

Jason Piscia is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Public Affairs Reporting (PAR) program at the University of Illinois Springfield's School of Communication and Media. As a 1998 PAR graduate, he returned to the institution after a 21-year career at The State Journal-Register (SJ-R), where he held roles including digital managing editor and pioneered the newspaper's online presence.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from Illinois State University, where he was a reporter and editor for the student newspaper The Vidette.

Research and Teaching Focus
Piscia's expertise spans Political Communication, Mass Communication, and Media Law. His practical experience includes coverage of higher education, business, and city government, as well as leadership in digital media innovation, which informs his teaching in PAR courses and media law.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions

• The SJ-R's website under his direction received multiple awards from the Illinois Press Association and Illinois Associated Press Media Editors for digital excellence.

Advising and Professional Impact
He has mentored and hired numerous Public Affairs Reporting (PAR) alumni, strengthening industry-academia ties. At UIS, he teaches core PAR courses alongside specialized classes in political communication and media law, integrating his journalistic background.

Contact Information
Office: UHB 3016 | Phone: (217) 206-7494 | Email: jason.piscia@uis.edu