Jacque Reid at SUNY Old Westbury’s networking event.
Emmy Award-winning TV & radio talk show host Jacque Reid spoke to SUNY Old Westbury students on February 14th about using social media to launch their careers.
The Media and Communications Department welcomed Reid to the Old Westbury community as part of the Media Innovation Center’s Diversity in Media and Journalism initiative.
About 46 students gathered in the New Academic Building to attend the networking workshop. Reid took the time to connect with the aspiring media and communications students, asking them to raise their hands as she listed different areas of concentration. She addressed individual students’ questions and advised them on how to further their success on social media.
SUNY Old Westbury media and communications senior Kayla Sedotto said Reid was “very knowledgeable and insightful.” She continued, “[Reid] gave great advice, such as don’t be shy while working in the media field [and] take bold chances while you’re young because you don’t have much to lose.”
Reid energetically encouraged students to pursue their passion, even if they feel fearful. When creating content, she motivated students to think of themselves as a brand. Reid said, “Know who you are and be confident in that.”
Reid currently works as a creator for her podcast, “Vegan Sexy Cool,” in which she provides a “vegan guide to fabulously leaning into wellness, sustainability & kindness,” according to the podcast’s Instagram page. On the account, she explores all things vegan from meals, to skin care routines, to coping mechanisms.
Reid has an extensive background in the media field. She has worked in the television, radio, podcasting, and social media fields. She has worked for many networks, including NBC, CBS, and BET. Reid worked in the news industry, but realized the entertainment industry and content creation excited her.
Professors Lisa Payton, Ozgur Akgun, Laura Chipley, and Samara Smith are to thank for this event and future events that are part of the Diversity in Media and Journalism initiative.
On February 27, students can hear from an executive producer at House Inc., Diane Houslin. On March 6 and April 10, SUNY Old Westbury alumni will speak to students about their journeys in the Media and Communications field. All students are welcome!
