BEA2025

Moderator: Ahmed El Gody, Orebro University
Hussein Amin, American University in Cairo; Case Study of Facebook in Egypt
Rasha Allam, American University in Cairo; Navigating Change: Assessing Social Media's Role in Reshaping News Distribution and Revenue Streams
Ahmed El Gody, Orebro University and Mahitab Ezz El Din, Linnaeus University; Clicks, Shares, and the Decline of Serious Journalism: A Content Analysis of Egyptian Newspapers in the Digital Age
Salma El Ghetany, American University in Cairo; Fast Moving Consumer News (FMCN): Context Deficit in News Consumption Among Younger Generations"

Grounded in a Diffusion of Innovations perspective, this panel presentation traces the evolution of the technology and messaging of the U.S. Armed Forces Network (AFN) from its early beginnings to today. The panel will cover the evolution of technology utilized by the U.S. armed forces and its parallels in technology utilized by the AFN. It will also examine the evolution of the messaging by AFN to troops abroad as to propaganda, health & safety, PSA’s, news, entertainment, and sports programming.
Moderator: Lance Liguez, University of Texas - Arlington
Panelists: Andrew M. Clark, University of Texas - Arlington; Roger Gans, University of Texas - Arlington; LaDonna Aiken, University of Texas - Arlington; Tom L Ingram, University of Texas - Arlington

Moderator: Bridget Rubenking, University of Central Florida
Debut Paper Competition
Debut 1st Place Paper: Vlog Community Building for Social Support on YouTube: A Social Capital Perspective; Hyang-Sook Kim, Towson University; Heaseung Jeong, Inha University; Munyoung Chung, Wilkes University; Youjeong Kim, University of Hawaii at Manoa
Debut 2nd Place Paper: “You Are Not A Sin”: A Textual Analysis Of LGBTQ+ Experiences In Africa; Lilian Oluchukwu Onianwa
Open Paper Competition
Open 1st Place Paper: The Battle between Face-to-Face and Virtual Meetings: Who Wins in the Hybrid World?; Candace Saunders-Grewe, Regent University
Open 2nd Place Paper: Depiction of AI in the Film Ex Machina; Michael Sinclair, Regent University

This panel examines the evolution of reality TV, from An American Family to Love Island, focusing on the shift from authentic family portrayals to highly produced entertainment. Panelists will discuss how casting has driven this change, with research revealing producers' preference for individuals with narcissistic and sociopathic traits, leading to high-conflict, compelling television. The conversation will explore how these casting choices reinforce timeless archetypes, such as the hero, villain, and manipulator, offering insights into the intersection of media production, audience engagement, and psychological manipulation in modern reality TV.
Moderator: Ines Petrovic Garcia, Volunteer State/Regent University
Panelists: Michael Sinclair, Regent University; Allen Babiarz-Lira, Vol State Community College/Regent University; Candace Saunders-Grewe, Regent University

Moderator: Michel M. Haigh, Texas State University
Research Presentations:
An Examination of Cross-Cutting Political Discourse during the 2024 Election Cycle; Jonathan Jay Beutel, Regent University
Generational Differences in News Values; Sarah Fisher, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Immigration as Etiological in the 2024 U.S. Election; Arthur D Soto-Vasquez, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Moderator: George Henry Bovenizer, University of South Alabama
Open Paper Competition:
Open 1st Place Paper: Slowly Then Suddenly: Television, Smartphones, and the Normalizing of Sports Gambling in the United States; Gary R. Edgerton, Butler University
Open 2nd Place Paper: Legacy and Impact of the Green Hornet: Generic Criticism Analysis of Comic books, Radio, and Television; Amanda Czuprynski, Regent University

Dorothy L. Sayers’s Metaphors of Meaning; Michael Sinclair, Regent University
Early Sports Broadcasting’s Pioneering Partnership – The Role of Atlantic Refining Company and N. W. Ayer & Son in Developing and Sponsoring Early Sports Broadcasting; Daniel Marshall Haygood, Elon University

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, intelligent communication is profoundly reshaping the landscape of the media industry. Media schools worldwide are adapting to technological advancements while addressing the emerging challenges. This panel aims to explore the transformation and innovation of media education in the era of intelligent communication, examining China's experiences in higher education alongside global perspectives. Scholars and professors from institutions such as the Communication University of China, the Nankai University and the City University of Hong Kong will join international peers to share research findings and practical experiences. The forum aims to inspire new ideas and insights for the development of media education, fostering deeper exchanges and collaboration between Chinese and international scholars.
Moderators: Shuhua Zhou, City University of Hong Kong & Xingang Chen, Communication University of China
Panelists: Weihua Wu, Communication University of China
Peng Chen, Nankai University
Xi Zhuang, Nanjing Normal University
Xiaoan Guo, Chongqing University
Xiaocheng Liu, Lanzhou University
Mingxian Fan, Central South University
Hangyu Cao, Communication University of China
Yifan Huo, Communication University of China
Zhongrui Chen, Communication University of China
Yiying Li, Communication University of China

Moderator: Nick Artman, Slippery Rock University
Debut Paper Competition
Debut 1st Place Paper: Winning Can('t) Take Care of Everything: An Analysis of Sluka's Departure Decision; Bumsoo Park, University of Nevada Las Vegas; Nathan Alexander Towery, Jackson State University; Samuel David Hakim, Clemson University; Nicholas Richard Buzzelli, High Point University
Open Paper Competition
Open 1st Place Paper: Local Television News Directors’ Opinions on the Sports Segment; Kevin Hull, University of South Carolina; Timothy Mirabito, Syracuse University; John Collett, Gonzaga University
Open 2nd Place Paper: Mega Sporting Event Content Choice: Predictors of Viewing Various Content during the Paris Olympics; Tang Tang, Kent State University; Roger Cooper, Ohio University
Open 3rd Place Paper: Facing social justice in sports: Improving empathy and storytelling skills in undergraduate education; Adam J. Kuban, Ball State University

This panel explores the significance of replication studies in advancing research reliability and credibility. Drawing on experiences from our PhD class, we delve into challenges, methodologies, and outcomes associated with replicating prior studies. Panelists will discuss their findings, including adaptations made for diverse participant groups, the value of qualitative insights, and the role of replication in identifying methodological gaps. The session aims to inspire future researchers to embrace replication as a cornerstone of robust scholarship.
Moderator: Amanda Czuprynski, Regent University
Panelists: Holly Diane Linford, Regent University
Larissa Krenzer, Regent University
Stephen Perry, Regent University
Candace Saunders-Grewe, Regent University

This panel explores strategies for turning your panel presentation into an academic paper suitable for publication, and submission to BEA competitions! Attendees will learn how to build on their presentation content and structure it in a way that meets academic publication standards. The discussion will cover essential steps such as identifying key themes, building out literature reviews, accessing straightforward research methods, and navigating the submission process. This panel is aimed at educators looking to expand their scholarly output and possibly leverage their panel presentations for academic advancement.

Moderator: David Crider, SUNY - Oswego
Panelists: Brad D. Clark, Mount Royal University
Kim Fox, American University in Cairo

Presentation of the Journal of Radio & Audio Media (JRAM) Outstanding Article of the year.
Presented by: JRAM Editor: Noah Arceneaux, San Diego State University
2024 Recipient: Laura Schnitker, University of Maryland; Declarations and Independents: How Chicago DJ Al Benson Brought Black Cultural Production to 1940s Commercial Radio
Volume 31, 2024 - Issue 1
https://music.umd.edu/directory/laura-schnitker

Does Communication Dry Up When Drought is Declared: Conversations with Stakeholders about Water Scarcity
Cory L. Armstrong, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Sharon Baldinelli, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Puppets, Vaccines, and Public Health - Harnessing Theater to Combat Misinformation in Albania
Elira Canga, Arizona State University
Cody Hays, Arizona State University

This panel explores the long history of manipulation in media, arguing that the techniques we associate with cutting-edge AI today have deep roots in the past. From the earliest days of photography and documentary film to modern deepfakes and Generative AI (GAI) content, media creators have continuously pushed the boundaries of reality, reshaping our perceptions of truth through visual and textual means. The panel will introduce a series of diverse case studies to connect past, present, and future, illustrating how unique a threat AI may be – technology that is not a tool but an agent of “truth.”

Moderator: Michael Bruce, University of Alabama
Panelists: Kathleen M. Ryan, University of Colorado Boulder
David Staton, University of Northern Colorado
Harold Vincent, Elon University
Mark Heisten, University of Colorado Boulder
Hal Vincent, Elon University

Media has long been a powerful force in shaping public perceptions of African Americans, often reinforcing stereotypes or, conversely, providing more authentic and empowering portrayals. With Generation Z emerging as a media-savvy and socially conscious generation, their response to these representations is shaping both public discourse and media trends.

This panel will explore the dual role media plays in influencing perceptions of African Americans and how Generation Z, with its heightened awareness of social justice and representation, is responding to these portrayals. From news and social media to entertainment platforms, this discussion will focus on the evolving expectations of young audiences, their demand for more nuanced and authentic depictions, and how media creators can meet these expectations while challenging harmful stereotypes.

The panel will examine key questions, such as: How do media portrayals of African Americans impact Generation Z’s understanding of race and identity? What role does social media activism play in shaping media representation? And how are media professionals responding to the changing demands of this generation?
Moderator: Braxton Wardell Laster, University of Mississippi
Panelist: Larry Miller, Lane College

This panel explores strategies and pathways for BIPOC and queer women to assert their presence, advocate for inclusivity, and navigate the journey toward finding a voice and claiming space in the TV, film, and news media industries, both behind and in front of the camera. Additionally, this study seeks to illuminate how BIPOC and queer women negotiate visibility, authenticity, and agency in a white male-dominated field where their voices are often marginalized.
Moderator: Conci Nelson, Missouri State University
Panelists: Morgan Butler, Lindenwood University; JOCELYN B MILLANA, Missouri State University; Rowena Pedrena, University of Arkansas

International Division
Moderator: Roxane Coche, University of Florida
Debut Paper Competition
Debut 1st Place Paper: The Impact of Media on Citizens’ Knowledge of Current Affairs: A Comparison of Moroccan and United States Media Systems; Madeline Lepisto; Edward Paul Downs, UMD; Dana Lindaman, UMD
Open Paper Competition
Open 1st Place Paper: Global Streaming Effects on Message Dissemination of Borgen; Michael Sinclair, Regent University

Writing Division
Melissa Jackson, Piedmont University
Show Bible Competition
Debut 1st Place: The Devil's Rust; Matthew Nolte Evans, University of Georgia

In recent years, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have garnered unprecedented national attention from major brands, retailers, and media outlets. This panel will explore the key factors that contributed to this heightened visibility and discuss how HBCUs can leverage their newfound platform while maintaining control over their narratives. The conversation will emphasize the importance of preserving authentic storytelling, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of these institutions, and ensuring that external partnerships align with the values and mission of HBCUs. Through a dialogue with experts in branding, education, and media, this panel aims to equip HBCUs with strategies to harness the power of this attention while fostering a sustainable, meaningful narrative that continues to uplift Black excellence and innovation.
Moderator: Sheri Janine Booker, Morgan State University
Panelists: Tammira Lucas, Lecturer, Coppin State University
Maya Gilmore, Executive Director of Charm TV

This session will discuss the need for continued scholarly inquiry into the practical, theoretical, and ethical dimensions of AI integration in public relations and strategic communication, offering insights for future research directions and practical implications. AI technologies such as chatbots, predictive analytics, recommendation engines, and supply chain management are reshaping strategic communication practices, offering efficiency and automation in various tasks. Despite concerns about job displacement, AI presents opportunities for professionals to focus on strategic planning, human resource management, influential marketing communication, internal communication, or crisis communication. On the other hand, ethical considerations surrounding AI in public relations and strategic communication, including transparency, bias, and privacy, require careful attention to ensure responsible use.
Moderator: Jae-Hwa Shin, University of Southern Mississippi
Ethical Guidelines for Public Relations Practitioners Using AI; Chuqing Dong, Michigan state university
AI Ethics: Moving toward a Universal Paradigm; Shannon Bowen, University of South Carolina
The Impact of AI on Influencer Relations: Bridging Organizations and Online Communities; Guy Golan, Texas Christian University
How to Respond to Deepfake Videos and Potential Threats to Organizations; Andrea Hickerson, Ole Miss University
Ethical Considerations for Working with Influencers in the age of Artificial Intelligence; Brian G. Smith, University of Mississippi

Moderator: Yiyi Yang, The University of North Carolina Wilmington

Algorithmic Intersectionality: Decolonizing AI Development Through Critical Social Theory; Atira B.E. Pressley, Regent University

Comparing Enjoyment, Empathy, and Trust in AI-Based and Human Translation: A Study of User Perceptions; Hyungseok Jang, Ball State University

Female Frames: A Content Analysis of News Media Portrayals of Women Accused of Violent Crimes; Haleigh Brooke Carter, Harding University; Jim Miller, Harding University

Forecasting Through The Lens of Bias: Exploring Gender, Race, and Appearance-Based Discrimination in Broadcast Meteorology; Tabitha Ann Bartoe, Regent University

Integrating AI in Public Relations Programs: Exploring Global Capability Framework (GCF) in Saudi Universities; Sara Alatmi, University of Colorado Boulder; Abdulqader Mahmoud Abdulbari, King Khalid University

Navigating the Controversies Surrounding LGBTQIA+ Influencers and Major Brands Endorsements; Kelsey Lynn Zook, Bowling Green State University

The Glass Ceiling in Cyberspace: How Online Harassment Affects Women in Sports Broadcasting; Kira Faith Fullington, Middle Tennessee State University; Christine C. Eschenfelder, Middle Tennessee State University

The Impact of Social Media on The Traditional Advertising Business Model and Content Format of TV Channel; Rania Sultan Sultan, American university in Cairo; Rasha Allam, American University in Cairo

A Cross-Cultural Critical Discourse Analysis of AI Representation in Egyptian and USA Drama; Nihal Alaqabawy, University of Colorado Boulder & Sara Alatmi, University of Colorado Boulder

Gen Z’s Social Media Choices in the 2024 Election: The Impact of Platform Owners’ Personalities; Dawson Henry Wagner, Kansas State University

The purpose of this panel is to explain our exploration of the impact of separating from technology while conducting ethnographic observations, with a specific focus on a university campus. By examining the observer's experience without technological aids, this research aims to uncover the challenges and advantages of media-free research.
Moderator: Michael Sinclair, Regent University
Panelists: Allen Babiarz-Lira, Vol State Community College/Regent University; Ines Petrovic Garcia, Volunteer State/Regent University; Klaire Elissa Smith, Regent University; Larissa Krenzer, Regent University; Holly Diane Linford, Regent University; AMANDA CZUPRYNSKI, Regent University

Diversity in media representation matters. Many say we’ve made great strides in the depiction of gender, LGBTQ+, ethnicity, and body type in today’s media, but stereotypes still abound, and the straight, white, thin, cisgender male still seems practically ubiquitous. What exactly does the future hold? This panel seeks to promote discussion of prevalent and controversial issues related to depiction of the “Other” in media, and explores how we as educators can better teach them.
Moderator: Roger Allman, Grand Valley State University
Panelists: Jennifer Rachel Billinson, Nazareth University; Victor D. Evans, Seattle University; Alexandra M. Vilela, James Madison University

This panel promises lively debate regarding academe’s role in checking authoritarian assaults on media, based largely on the recent book by Mascaro and the late William E. Porter (Assault on the Media: The Nixon Years, Updated with Analysis of 21st Century Threats to Democracy, 2024). Panelists will update media law & policy, antitrust and regulatory issues, applied history, and the debate over cultural studies as a critique of power.

Moderator: Ralph Beliveau, University of Oklahoma
Amy Sindik, Central Michigan University; Considers a half century of post-Nixon media law, including the Pentagon Papers impact on journalism, modern [secret] prior restraint, confidentiality as a currency of power, and teaching media law amidst attacks on journalism.
Stuart Brotman, University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Assesses antitrust and regulatory issues in terms of helping or hurting the press, the FCC vs. the Office of Telecommunications Policy, and First Amendment freedoms in light of new communication and surveillance technologies.
Tom Mascaro, Bowling Green State University; Proposes “applied history” by journal editors and working groups to take stock of battles between authoritarians and journalism advocacy, as both journalists and college faculty members are under siege.
Ralph Beliveau, University of Oklahoma and Tom Mascaro; Concludes the session by sharing their years-long debate over cultural studies as a “check” on power or an anemic self-serving “critique.” It is no longer enough to “right” or “smart” as academics; it’s time to be more proactive. M

Moderator: Judith Chandra Clark, University of Alabama
Open Paper Competition
Open 1st Place Paper: Revisiting news work in 2024: Technology use by corporate owners and its impact on local television newsroom labor; Carey L. Higgins-Dobney, University of Kentucky
Open 2nd Place Paper: Stance and Mediated Identity Construction of Joe Biden in Televised News Discourse on 2024 Presidential Election Campaign; Shreyoshi Ghosh, College of Media, Communication and Information, University of Colorado Boulder; Jonathan Behr; Millicent Elewosi, University of Colorado Boulder
Debut Paper Competition
The Infrastructure of Trust: Examining the Role of Philanthropy, Social Media, and Audience Perceptions in News Consumption; Azade Asadi Damavandi, Bowling Green State University; Ghazale Asadi Damavandi, Boston University

Narratives that broadcast television is in peril have been a part of industry and popular discourse since cable television, VCRS and video games became popular in the 1980s. Yet here we are in 2024, and, despite the deterministic narrative that old television is giving way to new television, broadcast networks not only persist but are a significant part of the streaming television ecosystem. This panel presents the following histories to better understand how network television has shifted its industrial strategies and practices in order to adapt to the digital age.
Moderator: Eleanor Patterson, Auburn University
Stripping Leno at 10 pm: The Challenges of Linear TV Scheduling in an Era of Online Abundance; Noah Arceneaux, San Diego State University
Bridging the Brand: Disney’s Use of Cartoon Blocks to Build their Brand in Broadcast and Extend it into the Digital Age; Kyra Hunting, University of Kentucky
Musical Narration and Memory: The Use of Commercial Music on Twentieth Century Period Pieces on Network Television; Anne Frances MacLennan, York University
From Analog Dollars to Digital Pennies: iTunes, Ad Dollars and Debates over Electronic Sell Through; Eleanor Patterson, Auburn University

Moderator: Rasha Allam, American University in Cairo
Panelists:
Rasha Allam, American University in Cairo; Media Perspectives and Narratives of Gaza- Israel War
This paper presents a content analysis of online news coverage of the Gaza-Israel conflict, focusing on both Arab and international news websites. By examining the narratives, themes, and the frames used, this study aims to show the different narratives that each platform uses in portraying the conflict. The findings reveal interesting outcomes on the use of language, story formats, and the use of multimedia reporting and underlying biases that may influence public perception. This study highlights the impact that the different narratives of coverage might have on audience understanding. The study aims to highlight the role of media in shaping narratives about the Gaza-Israel war contributing to discussion towards media responsibility and the media’s role in shaping public opinion.

Hussein Amin, American University in Cairo; Transnational Media Coverage of the War on Gaza
Abstract - This presentation will assess transnational news television media coverage of the war on Gaza. It examines unique challenges the journalists face when trying to cover this war? How does coverage of this war differ from coverage of other issues? What are the differences between Arab transnational news media coverage during the war on Gaza and the Western transnational media?

Nadine El Sayed, The American University in Cairo; This presentation will address how the same news agencies' coverage of the war on Gaza differed between their English and their Arabic versions (For example, BBC, CNN and AlJazeera), especially during the first month of the war.

Salma El Ghetany, American University in Cairo; The Civil War in Sudan No One is Talking About: A Case Study for Media of the Global North
This presentation will explore the critical gaps in media coverage of Sudan's ongoing civil war. By conducting a content analysis of select major media outlets in the Global North, the presentation will assess the extent to which this conflict has been overlooked or under-reported, sometimes at the expense of more coverage of other major conflicts such as the war on Ukraine or the war on Gaza. The analysis will highlight the media's role in shaping public perception and examine the implications of such coverage—or lack thereof—on global awareness. This study aims to provoke a discussion on the responsibilities of international media in reporting on conflicts in regions like Sudan.

News Division
Comparison Study of Broadcast Journalism Curriculum and News Reporter/Anchor Job Posts; Kevin Hull, University of South Carolina; Minhee Choi, Texas Tech University

From Ukraine to Gaza: Watching One War Displace Another on the U.S. Cable News Agenda; Kenneth Richard Blake, Middle Tennessee State University School of Journalism and Strategic Media; Jun Zhang, Middle Tennessee State University; Jason Bernard Reineke, Middle Tennessee State University

Radio & Audio Media Division
State of commercial radio post-COVID-19: Optimism in the face of continuous industry evolution; Kyle J. Miller, Northwest Missouri State University; Christina C. Smith, Georgia College

Local Podcasts Should Not Be Overlooked: An Interview with Matt Peiken, Host and Creator of The Overlook Podcast; Chad Whittle; Georgia College & State University

Aliens on the Radio: From Science Fiction to Contested Facts in the Early Years of Paranormal Radio, 1947-1972; William Evans; University of Alabama

Sports Division
Image Repair Differences between Human and AI-generated Messaging: The Case of the Chicago White Sox; Kevin Meyer, Illinois State University; Peter Smuddle, Illinois State University; Joseph R. Blaney, Illinois State University; Stephen Hunt, Illinois State University; Lance Lippert, Illinois State University; Megan Hopper, Illinois State University & Roy Magnuson, Illinois State University

More than “sitting on their backside?” A visual framing analysis of Esports podcasts; Rich Johnson, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Arizona State University; Ryan Broussard; Lindsey A. Sherrill, University of North Alabama; Marcus Funk, Sam Houston State University

Interactive Media & Emerging Technologies Division
Beyond the Viewer: Exploring the Effects of Parasocial Relationships on Twitch Livestreamers; Ashley Adamian, Valdosta State University & Kisun Kim, Columbus State University

The intersection between the musical historical moment and broadcasting or the media marks the time and place in a way that mere paper documents cannot substitute. The structure of feelings that resonates in music gives a sense of the time and place. These papers will explore musical historical television and radio, music festivals, protest music, and music in political and commercial moments.
Moderator: Shaughna Boara, City of Brampton
Branding and Identity with Music in Broadcasting; Anne F. MacLennan, York University
Bringing Home the Mariposa: The Politics, Policies, and Programming of the Canadian Folk Festival, 1961-2000; Christine Cooling York University,
As We Go Marching, Marching…: The Red Berets, Feminist Protest Songs, and the Spreading of Women’s Voices in Canada, 1981-1988; Hailey Baldock, York University
Music as Media Shorthand: From the Fabs to the Swifties, in Culture, Commerce, and Identity: A discussion of how musical signals help to anchor social, political, and commercial moments; Walter J. Podrazik, University of Illinois at Chicago

There is an ongoing negative view of journalism that has been festering on the fringes but has gone mainstream. This panel provides a combination of perspectives from academics and practicing journalists to address the implications of these negative public perceptions in the wake of the 2024 election. This panel continues a conversation started at BEA On Location 2023.
Moderator: Teresa (Terry) Filipowicz, Pima Community College
Panelists: David Deeley, University of North Florida
Robert N. Spicer, Millersville University of Pennsylvania

This panel will explore both the current state-of-the-art technologies such as: writing automation/algorithmic journalism, A.I. image (and moving video) creation, audience analysis/privacy, A.I. integrated into cameras and editing software, and emerging technologies. Panelists explore how these were anticipated in films and TV, books/novels, (from Lang's "Metropolis" to Spike Jones' "Her") and look farther back into history for examples of previous technologies that attempted to do the same. (e.g. the literal 'Mechanical Turk') The panel will also explore how journalism both created and debunked the overhype of these technologies.
Moderator: William Hanff, University of District of Columbia
Panelists: William Hanff, University of the District of Columbia; What’s Old is New, What’s New is Old
The presentation will explore the history of automation (from print typesetting to A.I. chatbots) in broadcasting and media. From this history it will confront the overhype of technology in reporting in the context of technological determinism/media archeology, famous tech news stories (or hoaxes), and the visual representation of automation/technology in TV and Film. It will also include a juxtaposition and exploration of how earlier imagination of technology impacted later designs, and case studies of current A.I. uses in media production and overhype by corporations and investigative journalism in debunking frauds and hype.

MJ Robinson, Brooklyn College/CUNY; Dear AI Autocorrect: I move your son mulch” or “How many Hal 9000’s does it take to change a lightbulb?”
This presentation uses some of the most storied and arguably funny autocorrect fails as a jumping off point for a consideration of how hype about AI’s language processing and learning has always outpaced its actual creative abilities – even and especially with the explosion of generative AI writing apps and the writing about AI writing apps. A historical consideration of the mechanical/computer-aided creative production of the creative industries and role that automata/computers have played in them will follow with a specific focus on the inability of generative AI to generate certain types of content – such as that which relies upon humor, double entendre, wordplay, context, complex metaphor or simile and the implications of this for the culture and media industries.

Nadine El Sayed, The American University in Cairo; n in Science Journalism and Indie Music Production
Science Journalism and Indie Music Production — both are known to have examples of "overhype" and both claim to be 'disrupted' by AI and automation --- and both will probably weather cultural changes pretty well, because of the care and individualization that goes into both well-produced music and well-communicated science research/journalism.

Moderator: Yiyi Yang, The University of North Carolina Wilmington

A Comparative Study of User Cognitions in the United States and China for virtual influencers; Man Luo, Bowling Green State University; Kelsey Lynn Zook, Bowling Green State University

Analyzing Parental Responses to Children’s Negative Emotions in Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Mixed-Method Content Analysis; Emma Grace Gaskill, Harding University; Jim Miller, Harding University

Art as Catalyst for Social Change: A Study of Visual Culture in Lebanon; Noor Obeid, Ohio University

Broadcasting in Dark Seasons: The BBC’s Worldview, A Metaphoric Criticism; Titi Horsfall, Regent University

Digital Dissonance: The Influence of Social Expectation Uncertainty on Vietnamese International Students’ Online Identity Inauthenticity; Thu Dang, The University of Texas at Arlington

Entertaining or Mis/Disinforming ? Social Data Analysis of Audience Reactions to Historical Accuracy and Creative License in the Netflix Series 'Queen Cleopatra' on YouTube: A case study; Omnya Abdelwahab, Ohio University

Exploring Memes as Representations of Intercultural Adaptation in a Transnational Context; Jisha Jacob, Bowling Green State University-Main Campus

Get Out Your Phone and Gamble with Me: The Role Visual Senses and Experiences Play on Purchasing Behavior in Online Gambling Advertising; Landyn B. Welch, Kansas State University

Grief and identity in coming-of-age television shows; Alex Piscatelli, San Francisco State University

Requiem for a Century? Canadian Broadcasting Policy, Online Streaming Service Regulation, and Cultural Sovereignty in the Digital Age; Christine Rose Cooling, York University

Moderator: Robin Haislett, Weber State University
Open Paper Competition
Open 1st Place Paper: Captioning of Non-Speech Information in Children’s Programming on Pbskids.org; Phillip Coxwell, Auburn University & Ed Youngblood, Auburn University
Open 2nd Place Paper: From Chatbot Usage to Brand Advocacy: The Role of AI in the Dynamics of Attitudes and Organization-Public Relationships; Chun Shao, Marquette University & Young Kim, Marquette University
Open 2nd Place Paper: "Is It Created by AI?”: An Experimental Investigation of AI Effectiveness In Internet Marketing; Emma Amrhein Salerno, Rollins College; Kate Amrhein Salerno, Rollins College & Ruonan Zhang, Rollins College
Open Paper: Emotional Responses to AI-Generated and Human-Made Multimodal Disinformation: A Facial Expression Analysis of Fake News from Partisan Media; Miao Guo,  University of Connecticut; Brett Andrew Williams, University of Connecticut & Carolyn A. Lin, University of Connecticut

The combination of sport and social media is both powerful and persistent. New platforms on which we interact enable the ability for fans, athletes, teams, leagues, and media organizations to exist on a playing field that is far more “level,” in terms of reach, instantaneity, and impact, than even a decade ago. Each of these presentations will speak to various correlates that occur between and among sport and social media and will present work related to the upcoming 2025 Routledge Handbook for Sport & Social Media.
Moderator: Andrew C. Billings, University of Alabama
Panelists: Athlete-oriented social media; Leigh Moscowitz, University of Kentucky & Kevin Hull, University of South Carolina
Fan-oriented social media; Nicholas Bowman, Syracuse University
Media-entity oriented social media; Galen Clavio, Indiana University
Team-oriented social media; Shannon Scovel, University of Tennessee