Emeritus Professor Chris Ogbondah: A trailblazer in journalism and academia, by Ben Ngwakwe
Nigeria is blessed with exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields globally. One such distinguished scholar is Emeritus Professor Chris Ogbondah, a veteran journalist and academic who has traversed the world, leaving an indelible mark on the fields of journalism, communication, and education.
Academic Excellence
Professor Ogbondah’s academic journey began at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned his BA (Hons.) in Journalism. He furthered his studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, obtaining an MA in Journalism, and later earned his Ph.D. in Journalism from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Illinois, USA.
A Stellar Career
Ogbondah’s career spans multiple continents, with notable positions in Nigeria and the United States. He served as Emeritus Professor at the University of Northern Iowa, USA, and is currently on Sabbatical leave at the University of Abuja, where he is the Pioneer Director of the International Institute for Publishing Studies. Additionally, he is a Visiting Professor in the Department of Mass Communication at Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State.
Journalistic Achievements
As a seasoned journalist, Ogbondah has worked with various media organizations, including The Tide Group of newspapers in Port Harcourt, WNTV/WNBS in Ibadan, and six newspapers in the USA, such as The Grand Rapids Press and Lexington News. He has covered international events like the FIFA World Cup and interviewed renowned athletes, including Muhammad Ali and Lee Evans.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Ogbondah has received numerous awards and honors, including:
– Fellowship of the American Society of Newspaper Editors
– Four Fellowships of the American Press Institute
– Award for Faculty Excellence from the State of Iowa Board of Regents
– Four Apple Polisher Teaching Awards at the University of Northern Iowa
Author and Researcher
Ogbondah is a prolific author, with three books, 12+ book chapters on Nigerian press, and over 36 articles published in top scholarly journals.
Professional Memberships
He is an active member of several professional bodies, including:
– Association of Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), USA
– International Communication Association (ICA)
– African Council for Communication in Education (ACCE)
_A Legacy of Excellence_
Emeritus Professor Chris Ogbondah’s remarkable career serves as a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for journalism and academia. His contributions have significantly impacted the fields of communication and education, inspiring future generations of scholars and journalists.
