William F. Buckley Jr. inspired generations of people through civil discourse, logical argument, and engaging persuasion. The WFB Communicators Program carries on this tradition of principled leadership by educating and equipping undergraduate and graduate students of journalism, marketing, communications, public relations, and advertising. Buckley described himself as having “engaged energetically in the world of language.” His commitment to civil discourse can compel a new generation studying and pursuing careers in the new and ever-changing field of communications to engage others thoughtfully and persuasively.
Each workshop features thought-provoking speakers addressing timely topics who will lead interactive sessions. Each session will include attendees in dynamic discussions or breakout group activities.
Through this workshop, participants will learn to:
- Discuss topical issues with civility and respect
- Identify common ground and areas of cooperation with others, without sacrificing principles
- Demonstrate respect for a debate opponent by a civil exchange of views and a genuine tolerance for different ideas
- Recognize marketing biases and develop effective forms of advertising
- Draw upon practical knowledge in the wide and varied field of communications, including reporting, public speaking, interviewing, podcasting, and marketing
Past Events
Workshop in Arlington, VA | July 12-13, 2024
On July 12-13, undergraduate and graduate students of journalism, marketing, communications, public relations, and advertising gathered in Arlington, VA, to discuss Buckley and his desire to engage others thoughtfully and persuasively. Speakers and topics included:
- I Love You, But I Hate Your Politics with NRI fellow Richard Brookhiser and NRI program manager Frank Filocomo
- William F. Buckley Jr. the Great Communicator with NRI fellow Jay Nordlinger
- Advertising and Marketing with Lyndsey Fifeld, visiting fellow at Independent Women’s Forum
- How to Build Your Brand Online and Making Amazing First Impressions with Stephen Rowe, Director of Digital Training at Leadership Institute
- The Power of Persuasion through Storytelling with Jefferson Shupe, Author
- The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves with Alexandra Hudson, Author
Workshop in Arlington, VA | June 23-24, 2023
On June 23-24, almost 60 students in communication-focused majors from across the country gathered in Arlington, VA. to develop their communication skills by discussing Buckley’s philosophy on communication, learning valuable communication practices, and by networking with each other. Speakers and topics included:
- Moral Courage with Irshad Manji
- William F. Buckley Jr. and Civility with NRI fellow Jay Nordlinger
- How to Build Your Brand and Making Amazing First Impressions with Stephen Rowe, Director of Digital Training at Leadership Institute.
- Responsible Advertising and How to Earn Media Attention with Luke Bolar, chief external affairs officer at ClearPath
- Assumptions and Cancel Culture with Kay Cole James, Virginia Secretary of State
Workshop in Washington, DC | July 16, 2022
On July 16, undergraduate and graduate students of journalism, marketing, communications, public relations, and advertising gathered in Washington, D.C. to discuss Buckley’s philosophy on civil discourse, logical argument, and engaging persuasion. Speakers and topics included:
- William F. Buckley Jr. and Civility with NRI fellow Jay Nordlinger
- Responsible Advertising with Luke Bolar, chief external affairs officer at ClearPath
- Writing about sensitive topics with Madeleine Kearns, staff writer at National Review and visiting fellow at Independent Women’s Forum—read the written adaptation of this talk here
Virtual Workshop | January 13, 2022
Students and young professionals joined us for a virtual, interactive workshop featuring industry Q&As with leading media talent and much more, including:
- A discussion with Kevin D. Williamson and Grace Panetta on Reporting on Sensitive Topics
- A special training on how to best utilize social media to communicate effectively
- A talk from a leading expert in the marketing industry on responsible marketing and best practices
Workshop in Arlington, VA | July 16-17, 2021
National Review Institute hosted its inaugural William F. Buckley Jr. Communicators Workshop at the Crystal Gateway Marriott on July 16-17, 2021. We were pleased to welcome over 30 students, interns, and young professionals from across the US and were encouraged by the support and participation in this first time event.
The following generous sponsors and partners helped make this event possible!
