Registration is now open for the 2026 Ifill Forum, featuring a discussion on the role of journalism and “Storytelling That Matters.”
On February 12, Simmons University’s Gwen Ifill School of Media, Humanities, and Social Sciences will host its annual signature event in honor of Gwen Ifill ‘77, ‘93HD and her legacy as a groundbreaking Black woman journalist. Each year, the Ifill Forum brings together important national voices for a public conversation on key questions of the day.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Susan Goldberg, an award-winning journalist and President and CEO of GBH, the leading multiplatform creator for public media in America. She is the first woman to serve in this role since GBH was founded in 1951.
As a nationally-recognized journalist and leader, Goldberg has transformed media organizations, executing multiplatform transformation and expanding award-winning coverage.
Keynote To Address Role of Public Media
In her keynote address, “Storytelling That Matters,” Goldberg will reflect on how journalism makes a difference in local, national, and international communities, and how GBH and other public media organizations nationwide can continue to be strong despite the elimination of federal funding.
“Earning public trust is more important than ever,” said Goldberg. “As we gain inspiration and insight from the trailblazing work of public media leaders like Gwen Ifill and continue her legacy of innovative and inclusive storytelling, I’m honored to be part of this important event.”
Ann Fudge ’73, ’98HD will moderate the discussion. In 1994, Fudge became the first woman to serve as President of Maxwell House Coffee Company and has served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of GBH. Currently, Fudge serves on the Board of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and is Senior Trustee at the Brookings Institution.
“As a woman who has made a lasting impact on the media landscape, Susan Goldberg carries on the legacy of Gwen Ifill and our School’s commitment to civic engagement and asking the questions that matter,” says Dr. Ammina Kothari, Dean of the Ifill School. “Simmons is thrilled to welcome Goldberg and engage her in this important and timely conversation.”
Ifill Forum Registration Details
The 2026 Ifill Forum will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:30 pm at the Helen G. Drinan Hall (C-520/C-521) at Simmons University. Registration is required. Please note that attendance is in-person only (not virtual).
Please email [email protected] with any questions.