Nikitta Foston (MSJ14)

Senior Speechwriter at American Medical Association and Adjunct Lecturer at Northwestern University Medill School

Tell us about your career path. How did you get where you are today?

God is good! I trust and believe in His guidance and purpose for my life. Thanks to the rigorous training at Medill, and my prior background in communications, I worked as a reporter and freelance writer after graduation, and later, as a speechwriter for industry leaders. Along the way, I launched a podcast, “Pivotal Moment with Nikitta Foston,” I became a Zumba instructor, started a speechwriting business - and branched into public speaking, moderating, and hosting. In 2022, I joined the adjunct faculty at Medill where I teach Introduction to News Reporting in the graduate program. It’s been incredible! My students are passionate storytellers who are eager to learn and committed to making an impact.

What are your main responsibilities in your current role?

As a senior speechwriter for the American Medical Association, I am a member of the team that develops speeches and content for the AMA president and other members of AMA leadership. In my role as an adjunct lecturer, I lead Medill’s best and brightest through the Q1 course, Introduction to News Reporting, affectionately known as “Methods.”

What is one of your proudest career accomplishments?

Serving as the emcee and host for Medill’s Hall of Fame ceremony in 2022. In this role, I had the privilege to recognize the indisputable reach and continuing impact of the Medill brand in every industry. We are everywhere. And growing.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

It’s an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come, but also, to recognize the important work that we’ve yet to do. Black History Month provides a platform to acknowledge our rich history, showcase our achievements, and celebrate our undeniable excellence. Black History Month is also a powerful vehicle to introduce to some, and remind others, that Black is beautiful, powerful, and poised for the journey ahead.

How can your industry be more inclusive and representative of society?

Reaching out to HBCUs, communities of color, and underrepresented groups, to develop an industry culture that is representative of today’s culture. DEI is not just an acronym. It’s a mindset. It’s responsibility. And it’s sustained action that creates a revised narrative told by new voices. Diversity is having a seat at the table. But inclusivity is having a voice at that table.

How have your identities influenced the way you navigate your professional career?

As a Black woman, I am sensitive to the demand to be both present and positive, while at the same time, often operating within systems that may undermine both. I encourage my MSJ students to remember that: 1) resilience is beautiful in every shade, 2) progress is ours to make, and 3) success is the best response to doubters.

As a mother, I am mindful of the industry barriers and bias that threaten may threaten my daughter’s promise (she’s an awesome screenwriter) but, in the same measure, I am vigilant about preparing her to recognize, and defeat those challenges.

What advice do you have for someone considering Medill?

You’re not only making a good choice. You’re making the right choice at the best journalism school in the world. With campuses in Chicago, DC, San Francisco, New York City, and Miami; and residency opportunities in Qatar, the EU, South Africa, Argentina, there is no place like Medill. You’ll learn from professors who are world-renowned industry leaders, bestselling authors, broadcast commentators, award-winning prolific writers and thinkers, and everything in between. Medill continues to produce the leaders of tomorrow and an alumni network known around the globe. You can go anywhere in the world and find a Medillian. Or they’ll find you. Join us.