Written by Shealyn Wade // Photo by Madison Meyer
Dr. Sara Shaban Hendrixson came to visit Harding University Sept. 21-22 to share her newest book, “Iranian Feminism and Transnationalism Ethics in Media Discourse,” as well as speak about the importance of authentic and credible journalism.
Shaban graduated from Harding University in 2010 with her undergraduate degree in broadcast journalism. She later pursued her doctorate at the University of Missouri, where she graduated in 2020. Shaban currently teaches journalism at Seattle Pacific University. Prior to becoming a professor, Shaban worked as a local news producer and freelance journalist in Israel, the West Bank and Sierra Leone. Shaban’s passion lies in social justice, specifically for immigrants and refugees. This passion has inspired her research, her book and the purpose behind each of her endeavors and chosen professions.
While on campus, Shaban guest spoke at the Honors College and in several communication classes, one of which was Print News Writing. During this class, Shaban emphasized the gravity of understanding the context of what, or who, you are writing about.
“To report ethically, you can’t have a Western gaze when interviewing other cultures,” Shaban said.
Shaban’s belief is that the purpose of journalism is to provide the reader with clear evidence so they can construct an informed opinion. But to gain clear evidence, the journalist must understand the context of their topic by conducting research that recognizes but isn’t controlled by their internal bias.
Shaban also spoke to the communication research class about how her career led her to use research as a form of longer-term journalism.
“Not a lot of undergrads think that research is in their future, and I think having her come and talk about it added a sense of relevancy,” Dr. Ginger Blackstone, who teaches the communication research class, said. “She really told her story and how opportunities opened up to her, and I think it did help the class understand how research can be gratifying.”
Senior Halle Miller attended Shaban’s presentation at the Honors College. This presentation was a focused look at Shaban’s new book. She highlighted the value of thinking critically and seeking to understand the real testimonies of people shown in news headlines, specifically Iranian women. Miller said that after listening to Shaban speak, she feels better equipped to consume media.
“Dr. Shaban’s presentation brought light to the reality of many different kinds of feminism,” Miller said. “She has given me a new perspective on ways to support the liberation of women, specifically Iranian women.”
