The growth of the internet and social media have radically altered the manner in which news and information is gathered, reported and consumed. Because a healthy democracy requires a healthy media, it is important to carefully examine today’s media landscape and identify and explore ways to ensure that the media continues to play a constructive role in our nation’s democracy.

Our mission is to serve as a forum for academic research, creative ideas and constructive debate on the intersection between media and democracy. The institute’s primary focus is on the Western New York region of New York State, but when appropriate and relevant to our region, we will explore statewide, national and international issues.