Kansas native and journalistic icon Rob Curley regularly inspires and excites audiences with his humorous and insightful messages about the media industry.
He’s bringing his knowledge and energy back to the Sunflower State as keynote speaker for the 2024 Kansas Collegiate Media Conference.
“I always love coming home, especially when I get to talk with others who love journalism,” he said in an email.
Curley is the executive editor at The Spokesman-Review in Spokane, Washington. Prior to this, he held leadership positions at The Orange County Register, The Las Vegas Sun, The Washington Post, The Lawrence Journal-World, and The Topeka Capital-Journal.
Growing up in Kansas and earning a bachelor’s degree from Emporia State University, Curley has carved out an impressive career in the world of digital journalism by being innovative and forward-thinking.
A key component of this is how he leads his news outlet to engage with the community it serves by hosting a speaker series and other events that connect area residents.
KCM 2nd Vice President Todd Vogts worked to bring Curley to the conference.
“I’m a huge fan of Rob. He’s a journalistic hero of mine,” Vogts said. “He does such impressive work that has incredible impacts on the communities he serves. He’s always inspiring, so I know students will leave energized and with new ideas they can put into action right away.”
Curley will deliver his keynote address as the kick-off for the conference on April 21 in the Rhatigan Student Center at Wichita State University. He also plans to lead a breakout session or two, barring any logistical issues or breaking news that requires his attention.
Stay tuned to the KCM website for more information regarding the conference schedule.
Curley Speaking Examples
Below are a few clips from talks Curley has been given in the past.