The last Owlcast of the season proudly hosts Dr. Nancy Snow, a Fulbright Professor of Public Diplomacy at Panteion University, a Visiting Scholar at the Institute of International Relations (IDIS), and the Lead Author of "Propaganda and Persuasion," now in its 8th edition with Sage. Her expertise in intercultural communications, peace and conflict resolution, and US foreign policy, particularly public diplomacy, makes her a fitting guest for this season's finale.

Dr. Snow's discussion with ACS Athens President Dr. Peggy Pelonis, among many other topics, includes the evolving landscape of storytelling, particularly within academia. Professor Snow sheds light on the growing shift towards digital media platforms, driven by the need for speed and the diverse range of mediums and audiences now accessible.

Professor Snow also discusses her role as a communication catalyst at both state and local levels. Her work promotes mutual understanding and encourages curiosity as a vehicle for promoting diversity. She argues that diversity acts as a change agent, benefiting both professional growth and personal development. Her insights into how curiosity can drive engagement and learning are particularly timely in today's rapidly changing world.

Listen as we explore these themes and more with Professor Nancy Snow, celebrating a season of insightful discussions and looking forward to future explorations in public diplomacy and global communication.

The Class of 2024 Academy Commencement Speaker was none other than the distinguished Tom Mustin, a veteran in the world of broadcast journalism and proud ACS Athens Alum. With a celebrated career spanning over two decades in television news, Tom has navigated the rigorous demands of the industry, emerging as a highly respected storyteller and communicator. His journey is marked by resilience and excellence, qualities that have earned him three Emmy Awards as both an anchor and reporter. In addition to his on-screen accomplishments, Tom brings a wealth of experience in media communications, coupled with a commitment to education as an adjunct professor at the University of Colorado in Boulder.

In today’s episode of Owlcast, Tom emphasizes the significance of serving a school community with a global perspective and the unparalleled benefits of a robust alumni network. We discuss the qualities essential for graduates to succeed, emphasizing the power of storytelling in the media industry. Tom's insights into the human element of communication highlight how genuine connection and empathy are key to impactful storytelling. Additionally, he shares his personal reflections on what it means to be recognized with multiple Emmy Awards, offering a glimpse into the personal fulfillment that comes with such achievements.

Furthermore, Tom talks about the crucial need for media literacy in today's information-rich society, and the ongoing challenge of maintaining fairness and balance as a journalist. He urges our community and its graduates to "check their excuses at the door" if they wish to excel and addresses the significant role of parents in guiding their children's interactions with artificial intelligence. Through his words, Tom aims to inspire a new generation of graduates to embrace their potential, uphold integrity, and commit to lifelong learning.

Alex Stelea, a distinguished alum from the Class of 2012 is with us today. Alex's journey is a fascinating exploration of technology, education, and the ever-evolving landscape of the digital age.

In our conversation, Alex shares how being introduced to new technologies with fresh, inquisitive eyes during his high school years sparked a lifelong passion for innovation. He recounts his fond memories at ACS Athens, where his curiosity was nurtured from a young age, and how these formative years were instrumental in shaping his academic and professional trajectory.

Alex reflects on the profound impact of group and project-based learning at ACS Athens, a learning style that proved invaluable as he transitioned to college. He shares his insights on embedding AI and digital literacies into K-12 education to prepare students for a future where technology plays a pivotal role. However, he also cautions against the dangers of biases in AI, as these systems often learn from historical data.

Together, we explore the dual-edged sword of retooling the workforce with AI-enabled practices—the opportunities it presents and the potential pitfalls if not handled thoughtfully. Alex firmly believes the future belongs to those who understand and harness new technologies. He emphasizes the importance of approaching college with an open mind, ready to embrace new cultures and experiences, and explains how early internships can provide crucial real-world experience and set the stage for a successful career.

Finally, Alex reflects on his time at ACS Athens and shares the three words that encapsulate his experience at the school. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking discussion with Alex Stelea, a true testament to the power of curiosity, education, and technological foresight.