Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication - History

History

In 1897, five years after the University of Oklahoma opened its doors, the first student ran newspaper, The Umpire, made its debut. In 1903 it became a semiweekly news publication called the University Oklahoman. Subsequently, by 1916 the paper had taken on the name that it still carries today, The Oklahoma Daily.

Sensing the need for professional training, some of The Umpire staff asked for a class in newspaper fundamentals. This first journalism course was placed within the English department as a one-semester two-credit course entitled English 33. Jerome Dowd, a Sociology/Economics professor and Theodore Brewer, head of the English Department, taught it. Since both had worked in the newspaper business before becoming professors, Dowd as an editor and Brewer as a staff member, they were well able to teach the first class of eight students. By 1910, Mr. Brewer had become the only teacher.

By 1912, as demand for more classes grew, Professor Brewer realized the need for a complete school of journalism. This need was also recognized by then OU President Stratton D. Brooks, who applied to the State Board of Education for a separate journalism school.

On May 24, 1913, the Board approved President Brooks' request, and the School of Journalism, located within the College of Arts and Sciences, was born. The school was to officially began in the fall semester on September 1, 1913.

Professor Theodore Brewer was appointed as the first director of the new School of Journalism, and along with Jerome Dowd, became the first two professors.

The first permanent building specifically for journalism was Copeland Hall, built in 1958. It remained in Copeland Hall until the opening of Gaylord Hall in 2004. Currently, journalism classes are held in both buildings. Introductory courses such as Introduction to Mass Communication (JMC 1013) and Writing for Mass Media (JMC 2033) are held in Dale Hall.

Formerly known as the H.H. Herbert School of Journalism and Mass Communication, in 2000 the Gaylord family (owners of The Oklahoman newspaper), gave $22 million dollars to the university. As such, the school was elevated to college status, and both the college and facility were renamed for the Gaylord family in return.

Designed by Oklahoma City-based architecture firm Rees Associates, Inc., the 107,850-square-foot (10,020 m2) facility was completed in two phases and anchors the University of Oklahoma’s South Oval. Exterior architecture draws from the Cherokee Gothic vernacular prevalent on the historic Norman campus’ academic core, yet sleek glass and a large outdoor news ticker meld traditionalism with more modern elements and convey the facility’s purpose.

The College's new facility includes multimedia computer labs, classrooms, lecture halls, a library, broadcast production and technical facilities, sound stage, auditorium, and faculty offices. These functions support the various education sequences such as professional writing, journalism, public relations, broadcast, production and advertising, and reflect the trend of media convergence prevalent in today’s communications industries.

Additionally, the Phase II expansion completed in 2009 added a unique feature: a simulated public relations and advertising agency where students can experience the industries they are studying first-hand. This area includes computer labs and offices, as well as presentation and conference rooms for collaborative efforts. The expansion is also home to additional classrooms and dedicated graduate offices and workrooms.

The two-phase design embraces an exterior courtyard which serves as a gathering area for alumni and multimedia events. Commons Areas and a Hall of Fame offer interior event venues, and a roof terrace provides views of the courtyard during outdoor events.