02-04-2025
'Crafting stories of compassion, empathy and humility'
Apr. 2—PULLMAN — This year's Washington State University Murrow Lifetime Achievement recipient believes there is more in life that connects us than separates us.
The WSU Edward R. Murrow College of Communication praised multi-Emmy award-winning broadcast journalist Harry Smith with the Murrow Lifetime Achievement Award in Journalism during its 49th Murrow Symposium. Smith accepted the accolade over lunch Tuesday afternoon at the WSU Compton Union Building.
The Murrow Symposium, an annual series that links students and alumni to industry leaders in the communication field, is held in memory of Edward R. Murrow, one of WSU's most celebrated alumni. The program aims to inspire young journalists through interactive experiences and conversations.
This year's theme focused on connection and curiosity, highlighting Murrow's legacy of groundbreaking discoveries driven by the pursuit of truth.
Smith said there are myriad ways to respond after receiving such an honor — one being a kind of affirmation.
"I just thought I was on some kind of a secret mission," Smith said. "I always thought I was trying to tell stories about people, places and history. Stories that I hope would connect us."
New WSU President Elizabeth Cantwell joined the symposium on her first day in office. She said Smith's five-decade career was built on a core of ethics and morality that helps explain the human experience.
"His long-standing practice of crafting stories of compassion, empathy and humility resonate with and connect with people all over the globe," Cantwell said. "He's continued his legacy delivering insightful, compelling narratives that increase our capacity to discern ... rather chaotic moments that we are in."
Smith began in radio before moving to public television in Denver, Colo., in the 1980s. He joined CBS News in 1986, anchoring and reporting for the organization and later on A&E, The History Channel and NBC News.
