VCUQ recently hosted 'A Conversation with John Hockenberry'. Though a non-designer, journalist and author John Hockenberry's lecture discussed well-articulated insights into the factors and complexities of the problems that face human societies today.
Mr. Hockenberry will be VCUQ's 2007 Commencement Speaker. He possesses a unique combination of experience, abilities and insights, as well as carrying with him the experience of presenting and engaging the best and most innovative designers in the world as the voice of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) International Conferences.
"A commencement speech offered by this extraordinary gentleman holds the ability to inspire VCUQ graduates to transcend the convention of an economically successful career with a new form of design leadership that can perhaps make greater contribution to the quality of life for their own society and communities in the Middle East." said Muneera Umedaly Spence, Chair, Department of Graphic Design
"Hockenberry's experience of reporting from many parts of the world gives him an ability to contextualize his commentary. His provocative commentary on the connectivity of actions and perceptions engaged the varied audience. The thoughts he has presented at AIGA conferences of the importance that design plays in the lives of people both aesthetically and functionally and how design alters the landscape of the community, was inspiring to the students. His current practice of political journalism is unconventional for a design college. This appeal is in pursuit of his evolved and well-articulated insights into the factors and complexities of the problems that face human societies today." added Peter Martin, VCUQ Assistant Professor, Graphic Design.
