Phill Brooks

Phill Brooks is an Associate Professor Emeritus at the University of Missouri’s Missouri School of Journalism. He served as Director of the State Government Reporting Program and pioneered technological advancements in journalism, including designing the world’s first newspaper microcomputer network system. He co-secured a $15 million IBM grant (1989–1997) to computerize the Columbia Missourian, revolutionizing newsroom operations. Brooks holds a BJ and MA from the University of Missouri, and his work includes consulting on computing in journalism for newsrooms and firms like IBM. His research interests focus on integrating technology into journalism education and state government reporting.

• Education: BJ ’70, MA ’72 (University of Missouri)
• Key Contributions: IBM grant leadership, microcomputer network innovation, State Government Reporting Program.

Brooks collaborated with colleagues to establish foundational digital infrastructure in journalism, emphasizing practical applications of technology. His career bridged traditional reporting practices with emerging digital tools, shaping modern journalism education.