COMMENTARY: Some of the most talked-about parts of the news today are photographs — especially those that show sad or shocking events, like people crying or images of tragedies captured by a photographer who arrived at the scene right after an accident happened. These powerful photos record moments that are both historic and heartbreaking. With more on this topic, here is MTSU Professor of Journalism, Dr. Larry Burriss...Reporters and editors don’t enjoy showing sad or scary photos, but they know they are part of real life. These pictures help people see the truth, even if it’s unpleasant. Life isn’t always happy, and sometimes these photos remind us of what’s happening in other parts of the world.
PHOTO ABOVE ARTICLE: Real-life news photos are not always pleasant to see, but they give viewers a more personal and in-depth look at raw human emotions. The photo above this article was captured almost 10-years ago, after the man in the hospital bed was struck by a vehicle. He survived the collision, but faced a number of injuries due to the incident.
Hear more media commentaries by Dr. Burriss by Clicking Here. To learn more of his background in education, scroll down.
About Dr. Burriss - Dr. Larry Burriss is a highly accomplished professor of journalism with extensive experience in both academia and professional media. He teaches introductory journalism courses, media law, and quantitative research methods at the graduate level.
His academic credentials are impressive, holding five degrees:
- B.A. in Broadcast Journalism – The Ohio State University
- M.A. in Journalism – The Ohio State University
- M.A. in Human Relations – University of Oklahoma
- Ph.D. in Journalism – Ohio University
- J.D. – Concord Law School
Dr. Burriss has a distinguished career in print and broadcast news, public relations, and academic research. He has published extensively in both scholarly and popular publications, covering topics such as presidential press conferences, NASA photography, radio news, adolescent social media use, legal research, and even studies on Middle Earth.
In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Burriss has held numerous leadership roles, including director of the School of Journalism, dean of the College of Mass Communication, and president of the MTSU Faculty Senate. His contributions to the state include being appointed by Governor Phil Bredesen to serve on the Tennessee Board of Regents.
A decorated professional, Dr. Burriss has won first place in the Tennessee Associated Press Radio Contest nine times. He also has a distinguished military background, serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force. His active-duty service included deployments to Mali, Somalia, Bosnia, Central America, Europe, and the Pentagon.
Dr. Burriss continues to inspire students and colleagues with his vast knowledge, experience, and dedication to the field of journalism and media studies.
