The College of Humanities and Sciences and the Richard T. Robertson School of Communication will welcome renowned journalist, author, and broadcast news anchor Geoff Bennett for a conversation about his new book, “Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to ’90s Sitcoms.” The event will take place Friday, Oct. 9, from 3 to 4 p.m. in Room 216 of VCU's STEM Building, 817 W. Franklin St. A reception and book-signing opportunity will follow the conversation.

As co-anchor and co-managing editor of the PBS NewsHour, Bennett is one of the nation's most respected journalists. A Peabody Award-winning reporter, he has covered national politics at the highest levels, including the White House and six presidential election cycles. Throughout his career, Bennett has conducted exclusive interviews with influential political leaders, cultural figures, and groundbreaking artists, bringing insight and context to the stories shaping American life.

During the event, Bennett will discuss his book “Black Out Loud,” an exploration of the transformative role Black comedy has played in American culture. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with actors, writers, producers, and executives, the book chronicles the evolution of Black comedic voices from the vaudeville era through the rise of iconic television sitcoms in the 1990s.

Through this examination, Bennett highlights how generations of Black comedians and cultural provocateurs challenged social norms, influenced public discourse, and became powerful agents of change. The book illuminates the ways comedy has served not only as entertainment, but also as a platform for cultural expression, resistance, and social progress.

The conversation will be moderated by Jesse Vaughan (B.S. ’80), a 35-time Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, director, producer and founder of Vaughan Creative Partners. Vaughan's distinguished career in storytelling and media production will provide a unique lens through which to explore the intersections of journalism, entertainment, and cultural history.

This event, which is part of the College’s America at 250 series,  offers students, faculty, alumni, and members of the community an opportunity to engage with one of today's leading journalists and hear firsthand about the stories and historical perspectives behind “Black Out Loud.”

Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged.

Register here

Event Details

Black Out Loud: A Conversation with Geoff Bennett
Date: Friday, Oct. 9
Time: 3-4 p.m.
Location: STEM Building, Room 216, 817 W. Franklin St.
Reception: Immediately following the event