Political journalist Kristen McQueary to speak at SXU on Feb. 16

"The State of State Government" will focus on the media, Illinois' budget

Chicago (Feb. 1, 2011) Veteran Chicago political journalist Kristen McQueary will discuss the media and the Illinois budget at the 2012 John T. Farrell, Sr. Winter Forum, hosted by Saint Xavier University's Renaissance Academy. The forum, titled "The State of State Government," is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thurs., Feb. 16 in the Butler Reception Room, located in the Warde Academic Center on SXU’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The discussion will focus on key topics such as how the media operates, how stories are chosen, and Governor Pat Quinn’s budget address. The event is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be served. A question-and-answer session will follow McQueary's talk.

“I think there is a real need for regular people to be engaged and understand how the government works,” McQueary said.

McQueary has more than 15 years of experience in both print and radio journalism, with a focus on statewide and government politics. She is a reporter with WBEZ 91.5FM, a National Public Radio-affiliated station, the Chicago News Cooperative, and the New York Times. She previously was a political columnist at the SouthtownStar.

The forum is named in honor of John T. Farrell Sr., a senior economic research analyst and deputy branch chief for the Central Intelligence Agency from 1952 to 1979. Farrell and his wife, Lucille, were facilitators at the Renaissance Academy, teaching a class called “Inside Washington” and a writing workshop. After his death in 1994, Lucille gave a contribution to fund the speaker’s bureau in his name.

The Renaissance Academy is designed with the goal of providing intellectual growth, enrichment and fellowship. This collegial association encourages development of new interests and is part of the Saint Xavier University's community outreach program. The courses are interactive and are enriched by the active participation and fellowship of the participants. Members consist of retired and semi-retired men and women interested in pursuing life-long learning opportunities.

For more information, please contact Kathleen Fassl at (773) 233-3770.

-SXU-

Media Contact:
Karla Thomas, Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or kthomas@sxu.edu