Jill Geisler

Jill Geisler is a clinical professor of leadership, journalism, and ethics at Loyola University of Chicago’s School of Communication. She served as the inaugural Bill Plante Chair in Leadership and Media Integrity and has been a leading voice in newsroom leadership development for decades. Her work bridges academia and professional journalism, with a focus on ethical decision-making and effective management.

Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a master’s in leadership studies from Duquesne University. These foundational experiences have shaped her approach to leadership education.

Geisler's research and professional interests center on leadership in media organizations, ethical journalism, and fostering positive workplace cultures. She emphasizes enterprise reporting, integrity, and employee engagement—values she cultivated during her tenure as one of the first female TV news directors in the U.S.

Though no formal list of publications is provided, her body of work includes over 500 columns and the book Work Happy: What Great Bosses Know, reflecting consistent contributions to the discourse on leadership and management in journalism.

• Inducted into multiple media halls of fame

Geisler has significantly influenced leadership training in journalism through her roles at Loyola University and the Poynter Institute, where she led leadership and management programs for 16 years. Her coaching extends globally to current and aspiring newsroom leaders, and she has developed impactful educational content that blends practical experience with theoretical insight. There is no mention of active grants, but her named chair and widespread recognition suggest sustained support and influence.

She does not appear to lead a formal research lab or team, but her work through institutes and academic programs constitutes a broad professional network focused on media leadership and ethics.