8th Hispanic Media Conference

Monday, Nov 09, 2026

The 8th Hispanic Media Conference brought students, educators, and media professionals to The University of Texas at Arlington on September 26, 2026, to explore the theme “Artificial Intelligence: What We Have Learned, What We Can Do.”

Attendees face a presenter and projected slides in a full conference room.
Attendees gather at UTA for the 8th Hispanic Media Conference.

Exploring AI and the Future of Media

Keynote speaker Evan Hirsch of OpenAI for News demonstrated practical applications of OpenAI tools in news gathering, reporting, and content creation. Attendees also explored changing demographics, the relationship between AI and audience preferences, and emerging opportunities across digital platforms.

Additional speakers included Dr. Kent Wilkinson, professor and director of the Harris Institute for Hispanic and International Communication at Texas Tech University; Dr. Doug Stark, assistant professor in UTA’s Department of English; and Michelle Scott Harris, senior technology manager at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Evan Hirsch gestures while speaking behind a UTA lectern.
Keynote speaker Evan Hirsch discusses practical applications of AI in journalism and digital media.
Michelle Scott Harris addresses attendees while holding a presentation remote.
Michelle Scott Harris of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport shares her perspective with attendees.
Dr. Kent Wilkinson listens as an audience member raises a hand.
Dr. Kent Wilkinson engages with the audience during a conference discussion.
Attendees seated at classroom tables face a presenter and projected slides.
Conference attendees explore AI tools and their applications in media.

Making the Conference Accessible to Students

Generous sponsors make it possible for students to attend the conference free of charge, with breakfast and lunch included. This support gives students an opportunity to hear from professionals, participate in discussions, and explore developments shaping the media industry.

Building a Tradition at UTA

Julian Rodriguez founded the conference in 2019, and it has been held at UTA each fall since its inception. Rodriguez is an assistant professor of practice in the Department of Communication, director of the Hispanic Media Initiative, and coordinator of the UTA-Amon Carter Foundation Broadcast Production Studio.

He believes that “good journalism has the ability to change the world for the better. Journalism is the maximum expression of the human condition, a generational opportunity to improve the quality of life of our society.”

Looking Ahead to 2027

The 9th Hispanic Media Conference is coming in fall 2027. Visit the Hispanic Media Conference website for updates.