The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center’s Community Tour is a new initiative designed to bring journalism, community conversations, media literacy, and civic engagement directly into communities across Southeast Mississippi. Each Community Tour celebrates a host community.

On Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. RHCJC will host its inaugural Community Tour at The Lumberton Church from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free lunch will be provided. 

What to Expect

Throughout the day, attendees can participate in: 

• Community Conversations - Hear from community leaders about issues affecting Lumberton and the surrounding region.  
• Journalism and Storytelling - Learn how local journalism strengthens communities and how residents can share story ideas.  
• Community Skill Labs - Hands-on sessions led by RHCJC students and staff on social media, Canva and working with the media.  
• Media Literacy - Interactive workshops through the Center’s “Ask Me What Is True?” initiative.  
• Community Connections Lunch - A free lunch bringing together residents, organizations, businesses, educators, journalists and local leaders.  
• Community Showcase - Visit vendor booths of local businesses, nonprofits, churches, civic organizations, schools, healthcare providers and community agencies. 

The inaugural Community Tour is being held in partnership with: Lumberton Main Street Association, The Lumberton Post and Community collaborator Arlicia Jordan. 

For more information about the Inaugural RHCJC Community Tour, contact Abria Turner at abria.turner@usm.edu or Ame Posey at Ame.Posey@usm.edu.