Jill Geisler

Jill Geisler serves as Clinical Professor of Leadership, Journalism and Ethics at Loyola University Chicago's School of Communication, previously holding the inaugural Bill Plante Chair in Leadership and Media Integrity for a decade. Internationally recognized for her expertise in media leadership development, she bridges academic theory with industry practice through executive education and journalism organization engagement.

Her academic credentials include:

• Master of Arts in Leadership and Liberal Studies from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh
• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Geisler's research focuses on practical leadership applications in evolving media landscapes, emphasizing ethical decision-making, cultural transformation, and inclusive team development. Her work addresses critical industry challenges including change management, staff development, and gender equity in leadership roles, reflecting her commitment to building resilient media organizations through human-centered approaches.

Her scholarly output centers on leadership philosophy in journalism, exemplified by books addressing management psychology and newsroom ethics. These works establish foundational frameworks connecting leadership theory to daily newsroom operations, highlighting the intersection of emotional intelligence, organizational values, and journalistic mission in digital media environments.

Her exceptional contributions are recognized by:

• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication Burkum Service Award
• Silver Circle of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
• Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame
• Milwaukee Press Club Hall of Fame
• Milwaukee Press Club Knight of the Golden Quill
• RTDNA Oldfield Award

Through Loyola's Master Class for Media Managers and extensive conference presentations, Geisler mentors emerging media leaders while advising industry organizations like the Journalism & Women Symposium and American Society of News Editors Minority Leadership Institute. Her teaching directly connects students to real-world media challenges through executive education programs and Center for Digital Ethics & Policy initiatives.

Geisler maintains active industry engagement through regular columns for Columbia Journalism Review and Poynter.org, alongside her highly successful 'What Great Bosses Know' podcast series with over 13 million downloads, cementing her role as a thought leader in journalism management education.