| Who is Ed Estlow? |
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A man of the future as well as the past By Jean Otto, longtime editor of the Rocky Mountain News , former President of the Society for Professional Journalists, and founder of the First Amendment Congress Edward W. Estlow is more than one of the big names on the University of Denver 's campus. More than a giant in journalism. His devotion to DU and his commitment to responsible journalism have already raised him to a place of honor in his beloved city. Now his involvement in and sponsorship of the Edward W. Estlow International Center for Journalism and New Media identify him as a man of the future as well as of the past. I am not surprised he is looking ahead. Ed Estlow was never one to rest on yesterday's accomplishments. Working with him on the Estlow lecture and the Anvil of Freedom Award demonstrated to me his commitment to DU's public, and that includes just about everyone. Students. Alums. Every citizen within reach. Few of us have lived more fully and cared more about our fellows. It is in that giving aspect of Ed Estlow that all of us benefit. Ed Estlow is a man of great dignity, integrity and foresight. He wants to share his intelligence. His experience. His acceptance of responsibility for others, and for those causes he cares deeply about. Now, in retirement, he continues to show Denver , the world of journalism, and those who honor both by their ongoing service to the future what leadership truly is. The Estlow Center is directed at the world, seeking to bring those involved in and those just entering journalism a view of what all of us want to share: continued growth, growing respect, and imaginative and honorable communication and journalistic principles. It is hard to imagine a more important legacy bequeathed by any individual. The goals of the Estlow Center should be the goals of everyone who has come to appreciate and honor our precious freedom of expression, whether it springs from the American journalism community or a world looking to enjoy the liberties of conscience, intellect, imagination and creativity. It is ambitious, and yet within the bounds of every person. The Estlow Center is a fitting conduit for the future. DU is a fitting place for such an effort. And Ed Estlow is a fitting leader for this leap to yet another accomplishment. |
