Undoubtedly you’ve heard the oft-repeated claim that technology is changing how we do things. And while some lament and others celebrate this fact, it’s becoming an inescapable truth within the communication industry.

UNC-CH School of Journalism and Mass Communication professors John Sweeney, Gary Kayye and JoAnn Sciarrino are amongst those celebrating. On Friday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the three are hosting the Next World Media Symposium in UNC’s Carroll Hall room 33.

The event – inspired by TED Talks – will showcase prominent industry and academic leaders with provocative views of media and branding. Keynote speaker Daryl Evans, vice president of advertising and marcom at AT&T (did you know that at $1.59 billion, AT&T has one of the largest media-spending budgets of any brand?) and others will highlight new trends, new tools and new ways to compete in changing industries of advertising, public relations, marketing and branding.

Within hours of registration opening on Oct. 4, all spots to attend the free event were filled. However, you can still stay in the loop by following the hashtag #NextWorldUNC in addition to joining the waitlist. Plus, make sure to stay tuned for a blog posts by Clairemont interns, Sam Halle and Kate Fedder, who will be attending the event and keeping us all posted on the latest and greatest tech trends!