Dr. Kenneth Starck (1934–2023) was a distinguished educator and journalist whose career significantly shaped the University of Iowa’s journalism program. He served as the director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication from 1975 to 1986 and again from 1990 to 1996, contributing to its national accreditation and academic development.
Born in Windsor, Colorado, Starck earned a B.A. in English from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. He pursued graduate studies in journalism, earning an M.A. from the University of Missouri and a Ph.D. in Mass Communication from Southern Illinois University, with minors in Educational Philosophy and International Affairs. His academic journey laid the foundation for his future contributions to journalism education.
Career Highlights
Before his tenure at the University of Iowa, Starck gained practical journalism experience as a reporter for the Herald & Review in Decatur, Illinois, and as education editor for the Commercial Appeal in Memphis, Tennessee. Notably, he interviewed Elvis Presley during a high school football game and reported on a 1963 incident involving police misconduct. Additionally, he worked as a freelance correspondent in Finland and China, further broadening his international perspective.
Starck’s academic career included teaching positions at the University of South Carolina and the University of Tampere in Finland. His international experience was further enriched by Fulbright professorships at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing (1986–1987) and the University of Bucharest in Romania (1994–1995).
Leadership at the University of Iowa
During his time as director, Starck emphasized the importance of a liberal arts foundation in journalism education. He believed that journalism programs should not only impart practical skills but also encourage critical thinking and ethical journalism. His leadership was instrumental in the school’s reaccreditation and in fostering a global perspective among students and faculty.
During his two terms as director of the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Dr. Kenneth Starck focused on strengthening the school’s connections with graduate and professional communities to provide students with opportunities for mentorship, internships, and career development. His leadership was instrumental in regaining the school’s accreditation in 1978 and increasing enrollment from 450 to 800 students. To manage this growth, he implemented a selective admission plan, ensuring academic excellence despite resource limitations.
Starck also reestablished the Iowa Journalist publication to strengthen ties with alumni and other supporters. In 1977, he launched the Professional-in-Residence program, bringing prominent journalists to work with students, providing real-world insights. Furthermore, he helped form an advisory committee in 1982, which played a crucial role in guiding curriculum development and fostering partnerships with the media industry. Starck’s leadership solidified the school’s reputation and laid a strong foundation for future generations of journalism professionals.
Later Career and Legacy
After retiring from the University of Iowa in 2004, Starck served as dean of the College of Communication and Media Sciences at Zayed University in the United Arab Emirates from 2002 to 2009. He was inducted into the University of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communication’s Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing his significant contributions to the field.
Starck’s legacy continues to influence journalism education, reflecting his commitment to integrating academic rigor with practical experience and ethical journalism.