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12 Days of Mercenary Day
Celebrate the season with a series of festive Borderlands 4 freebies on our social channels!
UN agencies welcome news that famine has been pushed back in the Gaza Strip, but warn fragile gains could be reversed without increased and sustained support
The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis for Gaza confirms that no areas of the Strip are currently classified in famine following the October ceasefire and improved humanitarian and commercial access.
Here's Your Entertainment Round Up for the Long Holiday Break
Wether you want a big blockbuster or you'd rather curl up at home with a classic, Fandango's Nikki Novak stops by TODAY with a list of the best movies to watch over the long holiday break.
HHS requests advice on using AI for lowering healthcare costs
A new RFI from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is seeking stakeholder input on how to realize artificial intelligence goals and usher in nationwide, clinical-scale adoption of the technology.
NFL Week 16 bold predictions: Philip Rivers torches 49ers, Jaguars stun Broncos
A crucial Week 16 slate of five bold predictions with major postseason implications.
Millions of soon-to-be uninsured Americans are looking for a medical 'plan B'
In January, millions of Americans will face more costly premiums on their ACA health plans. Some will go without insurance, pay out of pocket to see doctors, and use special prescription drug plans.
After shooting, questions persist about business running party space
Local officials say they are investigating a complaint about a business operating without a permit. The man who says he ran the company disputes depictions of his work.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Continuing the Journey Toward Improving Health Outcomes for All
Hannah Nesich, AHA senior communications specialist, recently sat down with Joy Rhoden, AHA senior vice president and executive director, health outcomes and care transformation, to talk about what’s ahead in 2026.
Ukrainian drones hit a Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker in the Mediterranean Sea for the first time, security official says
A source in the Security Service of Ukraine told Business Insider that the attack was carried out more than 1,240 miles away.
Industry Stakeholders, Experts React to Trump’s Schedule III Cannabis Order
Business executives, advocates, attorneys, politicians, and ancillary service providers overwhelmingly applaud the order as a first step, not an end destination.
EXCLUSIVE: James Van Der Beek Reacts to Concern Over His Appearance on 'Dawson's Creek' Reunion
The actor, who is being treated for colorectal cancer, said the weight he lost did not have to do with his cancer.
Dozens of Public Health and Policy Experts, Along with the American Public Health Association and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Urge DHS to Withdraw Proposed Public Charge Rule | Milken Institute School of Public Health | The George Washington University
Washington, D.C. (December 19, 2025) — A public comment filed by 65 public health deans and scholars, along with the American Public Health Association (APHA) and
Evaluation of WHO’s coordination in health emergencies helps guide humanitarian reforms
The recent evaluation of the Global Health Cluster sheds new light on how WHO, in its unique role as the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Cluster Lead Agency (CLA) for health, coordinates life-saving health responses in humanitarian crises. It highlights how WHO works through partnerships to reach the most vulnerable crisis-affected populations and strengthen collective action in increasingly complex emergencies. Serving both learning and accountability purposes, the evaluation provided timely and actionable recommendations that are helping to strategically position WHO during the ongoing IASC Humanitarian Reset and the broader UN 2.0 reforms, where prioritization and new ways of working are taking shape. The evaluation was conducted between 2024 and 2025, at a time when humanitarian action funding was plummeting by more than 50%, triggering the launch of the IASC Humanitarian Reset. While restructuring and prioritization across the humanitarian landscape were underway, the evaluation, through iterative feedback loops, shared emerging findings that helped identify the most crucial coordination functions needed. This was especially important at a time when humanitarian needs and health risks due to armed conflict and natural hazards were increasing, while the capacity of health partners to support Member States to equitably reach all populations affected by crises and deliver response was at risk. The evaluation found that the Global Health Cluster (GHC) remains a highly relevant mechanism for strengthening health coordination in crises and has delivered efficiently despite limited resources. It noted strong collaboration with partners and highlighted opportunities to deepen integration within WHO structures and further enhance inter-cluster cooperation. The evaluation also identified areas where greater emphasis on transition planning, national coordination capacity and linkages between humanitarian response and health system strengthening would bring added value. While the GHC has achieved many of its strategic objectives, improvements in monitoring systems would help better demonstrate collective impact. The recommendations will help strengthen the IASC CLA coordination function across WHO, at all levels, and with all partners. It is noted that going forward WHO needs to continue to support capacity to fulfil coordination functions, in line with the IASC Humanitarian Reset whilst ensuring collective prioritization of health cluster action and quality coverage of the health response. The evaluation will help WHO strengthen locally-led action, national ownership and leadership of the sector, and linkages between health system strengthening activities. Additionally, the evaluation evidence will be used to optimize resource mobilization for the GHC and strengthen WHO’s capacity to deliver, plan for and monitor and evaluate results across the Organization. Read the evaluation Global Health Cluster https://healthcluster.who.int/ WHO’s work in health emergencies https://www.who.int/emergencies/overview
The Avatar Game Is So Good, They Don’t Need to Make the Movies Anymore
See the new movie ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ if you’d like. But if you really want to experience the big blue world of Pandora, the video game is where it’s at.
CNBC's Official College Sports Valuations 2025: Top 75 athletic programs
The programs are worth a combined $51.22 billion, 13% more than the top 75 in last year's rankings.
Kansas City spent decades healing a racial divide. Redistricting could reopen it
A recently enacted US House map would again make Troost Avenue a dividing line in the community, part of a plan to have Democratic-leaning Kansas City represented by three separate Republican lawmakers.
Social Security payments vary by state. Here's where retirees get the most
Retirees in states like New Jersey get some of the highest Social Security checks, while others get less. See how payments differ in all 50 states.
Prudential Financial realigns leadership to focus on key markets
Several businesses will report directly to CEO Andrew Sullivan
New entertainment venue featuring duckpin bowling set to open in downtown South Bend
A mother-son duo has transformed a historic garage into Ivy Alley Social House with pizza, bowling and arcade games.
Breaking: Exynos 2600 goes official as world's first 2nm smartphone chip
Samsung has officially announced the Exynos 2600 chip. It is a 2nm chip that will be used in the Galaxy S26 and has better performance.
21-year-old business calling it quits in Richland
A Central Richland shop offering locally popped varieties of kettle corn, as well as its associated businesses, will close Dec. 31.
Councilors advocate for science on Capitol Hill
ASBMB Councilors meet with their elected officials to advocate for basic scientific research funding and training the next generation of scientists.
AI gives scientists a boost, but at the cost of too many mediocre papers
A new study shows that using large language models like ChatGPT boosts paper production, especially for non-native English speakers, but the overall increase in AI-written papers is making it harder to separate the valuable contributions from the AI slop.
Flu, COVID and RSV cases surging across New York, health officials say
Research powers agricultural science
Agricultural innovation requires more than ideas — it demands acres of land, barns full of livestock, fleets of equipment and teams of specialists who keep it all running. Few research
Arts and Entertainment Agenda: Dec. 19-25
Buckhorn Public Arts brings RY X to Aspen, Dec. 19 Buckhorn Public Arts brings Grammy-nominated artist RY X to Aspen for a special winter performance at 8 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Wheeler Opera House....
Google Introduces New Android Features in Pixel Beta Update
Participants in the Android Beta Program get first dibs on the next update, which is set to land in official form next year
Bucks' Antetokounmpo says his focus is on his health rather than rumors about his future
Giannis Antetokounmpo said Thursday he’s focused on getting healthy and helping the Milwaukee Bucks turn their season around, not on rumors about his future plans. Antetokounmpo spoke to reporters for the first time since a Dec. 3 ESPN report indicated that he and his agent, Alex Saratsis, were talking with Bucks officials about whether he’s best suited to stay in Milwaukee or get traded. Antetokounmpo strained his right calf in a victory over the Detroit Pistons that night and hasn’t played since.
The 2025 Faces Quiz: Do You Recognize These Notable Politicians?
See how well you know the politicians of 2025 with The New York Times Faces Quiz.
T. Rogers Wade, mentor and adviser to prominent Georgia politicians, has died
T. Rogers Wade mentored generations of young Georgians, like Attorney General Chris Carr, seeking traction in politics and the business world.
FedEx calls for more profit this year as this key business turns around
FedEx gives investors more reason to believe its overhaul is taking hold.
Pediatrician says HHS grant cuts ‘clearly detrimental to the health of America's children’
Dr. Peter Hotez joins Meet the Press NOW to explain how grant cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services could impact millions of American children and their parents. NBC News Medical Reporter Erika Edwards reports on the Trump administration's moves to end transition-related care for minors nationwide.
HHS Cuts Children’s Health Grants After Pediatric Association Criticizes RFK Jr
An internal HHS official flagged “identity-based language,” referencing a line discussing “racism and poverty.”…
NANO Nuclear Reports Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Results and Provides Business Update
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. NANO Nuclear Reports Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Results and Provides Business Update Management to hold webcast today at 5:00 pm Eastern New York, N.Y., Dec. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear micro modular reactor and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today reported its fiscal year 2025 financial results and provided a business update. Figure 1 -
Fargo business owner under fire for use of “r-word” on social media
The posts were reshared by the owner of Southtown Pourhouse, Duane's Pizza, and The Windbreak.
NBAA PDP Course: SMS for Business Aviation
This one-day course, held in partnership with the Northern California Business Aviation Association and hosted by Atlantic Aviation, will provide a thorough review of safety management systems.
Bandai Namco sells Limbic Entertainment to "private investor"
Bandai Namco is selling Limbic Entertainment to "a private investor specializing in video games."
LG Will Let TV Owners Delete Microsoft Copilot After Customer Outcry
LG Electronics Inc. will let owners of its televisions delete Microsoft Corp.’s artificial intelligence software amid a consumer backlash.
Chris Evans' 'Avengers: Doomsday' return confirmed after leaks
Cap is back! Chris Evans' 'Avengers: Doomsday' return is official, days after Marvel's in-theater teasers leaked online.
NBA MVP rankings: The race for the most valuable player award is heating up
We have officially hit the one-third mark of this campaign, so what better time to take stock of an MVP race that is as stacked with top-end talent as it has ever been.
Texas A&M Edge becomes the program's 11th unanimous All-American
Texas A&M senior Edge Cashius Howell is officially the Aggies' 11th unanimous All-American in program history after his stellar 2025 season.
Sir Keir as Eliot Ness, Radon Liz proving TV gold – all in another year of Westminster psychodrama
With the Christmas recess stopping our politicians causing more havoc, it’s time for the Guardian’s parliamentarian of the year awards
Dallas Cowboys dominate Forbes’ most valuable teams list
Dallas Cowboys valued at $13 billion, leading Forbes' list. Discover how branding and stadium revenue play a crucial role in their success.
Mamdani appoints veteran city official as budget director
Sherif Soliman will be director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Kennedy, US health officials outline new rules, warnings to block transgender care for youth in the US
US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other health officials said Thursday that the federal government will block hospitals and doctors from providing transgender care to children, saying, “this is not medicine, it is malpractice.”
FSU’s graduate economics program joins National Association for Business Economics partner program, expands student opportunity
The Master’s of Science in Applied Economics program (MAEP) in the Department of Economics at Florida State University has joined the prestigious National
More photos from Epstein’s estate released by House Democrats as deadline to release DOJ files looms
Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released photos from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate Thursday — the latest in a series of intermittent disclosures that have fueled significant political intrigue in recent weeks about who may have been associated with the convicted sex offender.
Isaac Chotiner Sums Up Politics in 2025
The idea that Donald Trump is acting from a governing strategy or a conception of national interest “seems completely disconnected from reality,” Chotiner says.
Large Minnesota study underscores disproportionate rates of health problems among recently incarcerated and unhoused people
In a study of more than 4.3 million people in Minnesota, researchers found widespread disparities in health conditions between the general population and people who ...
Trump marijuana order would ease taxes but leave big gaps
President Donald Trump is signaling he plans to sign an executive order to classify marijuana as a less-dangerous drug that can be prescribed by physicians.
The Trevor Project Condemns Federal Government Efforts to Restrict Health Care for Transgender Youth
Your Support Saves LGBTQ+Youth's Lives Every DayDonateResearch shows that access to transition-related care is associated with significantly lower rates of […]
AJ McCarron named head coach of Birmingham Stallions, steps back from politics
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBMA) — Former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback and NFL veteran AJ McCarron has officially been named the new head coach of the Birmingham Sta
Amon-Ra St. Brown would like to know why the NFL doesn't like his booger-flicking celebration: 'What is bad about that?'
St. Brown said he was told by officials to cut it out after doing the celebration following big plays.
House passes narrow health care package; sets up a vote on EPTCs in January
The House yesterday passed the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act (H.R. 6703), legislation to expand association health plans, increase transparency requirements for pharmacy benefit managers, and fund cost-sharing reductions for some Health Insurance Marketplace enrollees. The measure advanced by a 216-211 vote and will now move to the Senate for consideration.
Houston-area health officials warn of sharp rise in whooping cough cases
Houston health officials are sounding the alarm over a dramatic spike in whooping cough cases, with over 3,500 reported across Texas this year.
Watch live: House convenes hearing on implementation of CHIPS and Science Act
Federal officials are set to testify Thursday morning before the House Science, Space and Technology Committee on implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act, which aims to bolster domestic semicon…
Blackstone’s Schwarzman Says Data Center Business Not a Bubble
Blackstone Inc. Chief Executive Officer Steve Schwarzman brushed aside talk of a bubble surrounding the data centers powering artificial intelligence, saying the business is conservative.
Capital Region commercial developers eye 2026 as momentum returns
The local commercial real estate market has picked up and is expected to strengthen in 2026 as interest rates fall, insurance costs ease and construction prices stabilize, according to Capital Region experts. Charlie Colvin of Momentum Commercial Real Estate says activity has noticeably increased, with many deals moving toward completion before year’s end. “We’re starting […]
Here’s What’s In Each ‘Fortnite’ Winterfest Cabin Present
Want to grab some free gifts from the Fortnite Winterfest cabin? Here is what is in each present so you can make some informed decisions
Factorial and Cartesian Growth Corporation III (Nasdaq: CGCT) Announce Business Combination Agreement to Accelerate Commercialization of Solid-State Battery Technology
Factorial Inc. (“Factorial”), a leader in solid-state battery technology, and Cartesian Growth Corporation III (“Cartesian III”), a special purpose acquisiti...
Trump’s social media business is merging with a nuclear fusion company
Truth Social parent company Trump Media & Technology Group announced a deal on Thursday to merge with nuclear fusion company TAE Technologies.
CMA warns federal cuts to American Academy of Pediatrics undermine children's health
CMA President and pediatrician René Bravo, M.D., issued the following statement following the U.S. Department of Health...
A Filmmaker Made a Sam Altman Deepfake—and Got Unexpectedly Attached
The director of “Deepfaking Sam Altman” created a “Sam Bot” when he couldn’t get an interview with the OpenAI CEO. Watch an exclusive trailer for the documentary, which comes out in January.
McGraw was ‘Raised on K-State’ - Kansas State University Athletics
They train together, father and son, running hills in northeast Kansas, even now — especially now — as Lawson McGraw finishes his senior year at Blue Valley ...
The World’s 50 Most Valuable Sports Teams 2025
See Forbes' 2025 list of the world's most valuable sports teams, which features franchises from six different leagues and ranges from $5.4 billion to $13 billion.
Americans Facing Soaring Health Insurance Costs May Get a Lifeline in 2026, Experts Say
By Amina Niasse and Ahmed Aboulenein NEW YORK/WASHINGTON, Dec 18 (Reuters) - Americans facing skyrocketing Obamacare health insurance premiums could still get a break from expanded government subsidies in 2026 through retroactive legislation and possibly a special enrollment period, investors,
NYC’s viral grocery store founder breaks silence: ‘I’m an active target’ — and it’s good for business
From $27 beef salads to $700 caviar, this New York City grocery store became a cultural flashpoint through social media buzz, proving controversy boosts business.
Phone Updates Used to Be Annoying. The Latest iOS Is Awful
Is the latest iPhone operating system aesthetically appealing? No. But is it useful? Also no. At least I have company among the disgruntled.
Hospitals acquired by real estate investment trusts associated with greater risk of bankruptcy, closure | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
REIT acquisition of hospitals had no significant impacts on quality of clinical care or patient outcomes—but had a significant negative impact on hospital finances, according to a new Harvard Chan School study.
Sphere Entertainment Names Felicia Yue as EVP and CTO, Sphere
Sphere Entertainment Co. announces that Felicia Yue, a seasoned entertainment technology leader, has joined the company as Executive Vice President, ...
Democrats’ showing in Georgia special elections boosts party, unnerves Republicans
Competitive special elections have put once-securely Republican districts in play for Democrats, who seek to inch toward controlling the Georgia House in 2026.
Taylor Swift Put a ‘Curse’ on Chiefs, Says NFL Star
Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua drew attention this week by blaming Taylor Swift for the Kansas City Chiefs’ collapse. The remark came on social media when the Chiefs confirmed an early exit from playoff contention. The conversation also dived deeper into injuries this season and what comes next for the franchise, including Travis Kelce. […] The post Taylor Swift Put a ‘Curse’ on Chiefs, Says NFL Star appeared first on Mandatory.
Season’s Greetings 2025 from Amer Sports
As we wrap up another remarkable year, we’re excited to share a special Season’s Greetings video featuring team members from across Amer Sports. In this short film, they reflect on memorable moments…
Retirees Are Enjoying Life Amid Health and Financial Uncertainties
Four in 10 retirees indicate their enjoyment of life (44%) and happiness (41%) have improved since they retired, according to Retirement Realities: The Experience of Retirees, a survey report released today by nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® (TCRS) in collaboration with Transamerica Institute®.
Bank of England expected to announce pre-Christmas interest rate cut today
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
Principal Exits $800 Million Hong Kong Pension Business
Principal Financial Group Inc. is withdrawing from another pension business in Hong Kong as the US financial services firm seeks to cut administrative costs, according to people familiar with the matter.
Federal Officials Testify on the Implementation of the CHIPS & Science Act
Officials from NASA, National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and the Department of Energy testify to the implementation of the CHIPS & Science Act before a House Science, Space and Technology subcommittee.
Judge fines Goodlettsville ‘adult entertainment’ venue
Back in September, the Back Stage Venue was cited by the City of Goodlettsville, which claimed it was an adult entertainment business operating in a commercial services limited zone and not an indu…
Where’s the snow: Is weather affecting business in Big Sky?
Big Sky ski rental shops report slower business due to warm weather limiting terrain, though tourism officials remain optimistic about bookings.
Chicago-area health officials expect bad flu season, push for vaccinations despite federal guidance
Chicago-area healthcare providers are stocked up with influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, but some doctors say it's been a tough sell this year.
Societies must adapt to the rise of multimodality cardiac imaging
ASE President David Wiener detailed some of the many ways imaging societies need to adapt now that so many imagers are specializing in multiple modalities. It may be time to change how annual conferences are scheduled, for example, so that the costs of travel are easier to manage.
A Psychologist Shares A Science-Inspired Test To Reveal Your Core Personality
Here's a test that might actually reveal something true about your identity. Answer eight simple questions to get your results.
A Psychologist Shares A Science-Inspired Spirit Animal Test To Reveal Your Core Personality
Here's a spirit animal test that might actually reveal something true about your identity. Answer eight simple questions to get your results.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment 1.0.3 update out now, patch notes
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment has received its version 1.0.3 update, and here are the full official English patch notes.
Winter is changing in Charleston: the science behind it and what to expect
The winter season officially begins this weekend, with the winter solstice occurring Sunday at 10:03 a.m.It has felt like winter recently in the Lowcountry, wit
Specialties Honor Roll: Entertainment Law
From Hollywood to Madison Avenue to the ballpark, entertainment, media and sports law requires a mix of creativity, business sense, and legal skill. These 10 law schools prepare students for careers in the field through hands-on clinics, industry-focused coursework and strong professional networks, earning an A+, A and A- in our annual honor roll. (A+) […]
Owner of CT roofing business sentenced to 15 months in prison for tax evasion
He also was ordered to pay more than $1.1 million to the IRS and $578,259 to the Connecticut Medicaid program, officials said.
NU administration addresses employee concerns about health care shift at special Faculty Senate meeting
Following Northwestern’s announcement that UnitedHealthcare will replace Blue Cross Blue Shield as the University’s employee health care administrator, human resources representatives fielded faculty concerns at a special Faculty Senate meeting Thursday. The University announced June 12 that all medical plans for NU faculty and staff will be administered by UnitedHealthcare starting Jan. 1, 2026. Faculty...
New plaques on Trump’s ‘Presidential Walk of Fame’ offer pointed descriptions of predecessors
The White House has installed plaques along President Donald Trump’s “Presidential Walk of Fame,” offering descriptions of his predecessors, often written in the style of his social media posts — including insults, baseless claims and random capitalization.
From Television Host To Media Mogul: How Scott Evans Is Expanding His Entertainment Empire
After years of dominating within the entertainment industry as an in-demand, beloved, and lauded Emmy-nominated television host, he has made shockwaves with his own brand and Webby-award-winning and self-funded show, ‘House Guest’ hosted on YouTube. His success lies in his infectious, warm personality and effortless ability to connect deeply with people, especially celebrities, through his show, ‘House Guest.’ The show filmed at his home with a small but mighty production crew, and curates an intimate environment that fosters authentic, genuine conversations, which typically go viral.
Fired NIH institute director sues Trump health officials, seeks reinstatement and backpay
The former director of the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is suing Trump | The former director of the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases is suing Trump administration officials over her September firing, which she alleges violated her rights and was illegal under federal whistleblower protections.
Young Democrat launches primary challenge against U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson in Mississippi
A 33-year-old antitrust lawyer with ties to major Democratic politicians is challenging U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson to represent Mississippi's 2nd congressional district.
WATCH: Doctor-lawmaker blames Obamacare for driving health costs higher
House Republicans unveil healthcare bill promising to cut premiums by 11-12% through association health plans and transparency measures for all Americans, among other initiatives.
Jack Smith tells Congress he could prove Trump engaged in a 'criminal scheme' to overturn 2020 election
Smith testified about his investigations into Trump during a closed-door hearing with members of the House Judiciary Committee.
Apple’s Upcoming Low-Cost MacBook Was Tested With An A15 Bionic, Making It Slower Than The Current-Generation iPad, Retail Versions Said To Feature An A18 Pro
The low-cost MacBook currently in development was leaked to be tested with an A15 Bionic, but luckily, the commercial units will likely feature the A18 Pro
The Most Powerful Politics Influencers Barely Post About Politics
New research shows that social media creators have enormous influence over their audiences' politics—especially those who don't normally share political content.
Jack Smith denies politics played any role in Trump prosecutions at House hearing
Special counsel takes full ownership of 2020 election and classified documents cases against former president
Danville City Council says ‘yes’ to new entertainment center
DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — An all-in-one trampoline park, restaurant and rock climbing facility could be coming to one city in Central Illinois. The Danville City Council voted Tuesday night wit…
How dogs make teens feel less anxious
The beneficial relationship is much more than skin deep
A new era for sports communication at UNC Hussman | UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media
As director of UNC Hussman’s Sports Communication Focus Program, Distinguished Associate Professor of Sports Communication Livis Freeman is building on the work of the school’s legendary Distinguished Professor for Sports Communication John Sweeney. Sweeney, who retired last year, developed one of the most respected sports communication programs in the country. Freeman, now in his 12th year at the school, is launching an ambitious expansion of the program that is transforming how UNC prepares students for careers in sports media. The most visible change came this fall with a reimagining of “MEJO 377: Sports Communication.” Previously offered as two sections with 30 students each, the course expanded to 96 students and welcomed former UNC basketball star and NBA veteran Tyler Hansbrough as the co-instructor with Freeman, bringing real world professional experience directly into the classroom every week. The course has been a huge success. Students have participated in recording a podcast with Hansbrough and learned from an impressive lineup of guest speakers. Steve Kirschner, UNC’s senior associate director of athletics for communications, was the first in the course’s guest speaker series, followed by UNC Hussman alumni including Kaitlyn Schmidt ’23 from Bleacher Report, Deaton Bell ’90 from Turner Sports and Becca Royer ’19 from the Philadelphia 76ers. Travis Tygart, CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, also shared his insights with the class. The highlight of the semester came when Roy Williams, who coached Hansbrough and the Tar Heels to a national championship in 2009, visited the classroom. Former UNC men’s basketball players Luke Maye and Marcus Ginyard showed up to support their former coach and Hansbrough, creating an unforgettable experience as Williams entertained students with stories and insights that captivated the room. Student demand has been overwhelming. The course reached capacity within two days of registration opening, with more than 40 students on the waitlist. “Students want to learn from people who have actually lived these experiences,” Freeman said. “Tyler shares insights into media relations, broadcast production and athlete communications that you simply can’t get from a textbook.” The model proved so successful that the school secured funding to continue it for the next five years, with a different former professional athlete co-teaching each fall. The school’s curriculum committee approved a proposal to expand the course to 150 to 200 students starting in fall 2026. This change will make it an introductory course accessible to students from across the University, transforming it into a showcase course for the entire campus. The course redesign represents just one piece of a broader sports communication program overhaul. This fall, the curriculum committee approved “MEJO 390: Sports Play by Play,” the first course of its kind at UNC. Limited to 10 advanced students, the course will be taught by Matt Krause, the current voice of UNC women’s basketball and an ACC Network broadcaster. Students will call actual games across multiple sports including women’s softball, soccer, volleyball, field hockey and lacrosse, as well as men’s soccer and lacrosse. They will also shadow broadcasts of men’s and women’s basketball games. “The sports broadcasting industry is exploding with streaming platforms and conference networks creating unprecedented demand,” Freeman said. The course emerged directly from student advocacy, led by Anna Laible ’26 and others who pushed for hands-on broadcasting experience. Professional equipment has been acquired, partnerships with UNC Athletics are in place and a soft launch began this semester with three experienced students calling games to test the system. The program’s growth extends into other specialized areas as well. Last spring, Stembler Professor Charlie Tuggle launched a new sports event management and hospitality course in partnership with On Location, a company that manages major sporting event experiences. The course provided students with opportunities to travel to the Super Bowl and NFL Draft, and Tuggle plans to take a group to the 2026 Milan Olympics this spring. Looking ahead to spring 2026, Associate Professor Ryan Thornburg will debut a sports data visualization course, adding another dimension to the program’s skill-building offerings. The curriculum expansion reflects the increasingly diverse career paths available in sports media, from traditional journalism and broadcasting to digital analytics and strategic communication. The program is also diving into one of college athletics’ most transformative developments: Name, Image and Likeness rights. Freeman’s “MEJO 466: Sports Marketing” class collaborated last spring with Associate Professor Gary Kayye’s “MEJO 371: Advertising Creative” class on a project with UNC’s Carolina NIL group to help rebrand their organization. That same semester, Kayye’s class envisioned Chapel Thrill, UNC football’s new pregame concert and entertainment experience. And Shaun Anderson, the school’s Knight Chair in Sports, Race and Media, continues to explore the broader implications of NIL through his research and teaching. These NIL-focused initiatives give students direct exposure to the business side of college athletics at a moment when the landscape is rapidly evolving. “Our students aren’t just learning about these changes,” Freeman said. “They’re actively helping shape how schools and athletes navigate them.” The transformation of UNC Hussman’s sports communication program reflects a broader philosophy about how to prepare students for careers in a rapidly changing industry. By bringing in professional practitioners like Hansbrough and Krause, partnering with industry leaders like On Location and ACC Network, and engaging with current issues like NIL, the program ensures students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. For alumni who remember the foundations John Sweeney built, the expansion represents an evolution rather than a departure. The program still emphasizes strong reporting, strategic communication, ethical communication and critical thinking. But now it also offers students the chance to call live games, work on real NIL campaigns and learn directly from former professional athletes. “We’re not just teaching students about sports media,” Freeman said. “We’re giving them the tools, experiences and connections to actually build careers in it.” With new courses launching, professional partnerships deepening and enrollment expanding, UNC Hussman’s sports communication program is positioning itself as a national leader in preparing the next generation of sports media professionals. For current students, the message is clear: if you’re interested in sports communication, there’s never been a better time to be at UNC Hussman. And for the hundreds of students trying to get off waitlists and into these new courses, the school is working to create more opportunities. The program John Sweeney built is growing in ways that honor his legacy while meeting the demands of a new era in sports media.