Joe Grimm

Joe Grimm serves as a Visiting Professor and Editor in residence at Michigan State University's School of Journalism, where he coordinates Journalism 300 and teaches practical journalism skills with a focus on cultural competence and inclusive reporting. A former newsroom recruiting and development editor at the Detroit Free Press for 25 years, he brought his extensive industry experience to MSU in 2008 after more than 30 years in journalism.

Grimm's research centers on cultural competence through the Bias Busters book series, which has published over 20 student-authored guides addressing stereotypes about various ethnic, racial, religious, and occupational groups. He also developed the Fair Chance Reporting methodology to ensure comprehensive community coverage. His scholarly interests span journalism ethics, media representation, Michigan cultural history, and career development for journalism students.

His publication trends reveal a consistent focus on bridging cultural divides through journalism, with recent works emphasizing religious and ethnic understanding alongside his earlier historical works on Michigan food culture and Great Lakes traditions. The Bias Busters series represents his most significant scholarly contribution, combining teaching, research, and community engagement.

• Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame member

As an educator, Grimm has advised the MSU chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists and co-edited newsletters for the AEJMC Religion and Media Interest Group. He serves on the advisory board for the Great Lakes Books Series at Wayne State University Press. His teaching approach emphasizes practical application, with students publishing books and developing reporting techniques that address real-world media challenges. He has created an extensive body of work that connects classroom learning with professional journalism practice while promoting cultural understanding.