The University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications welcomed Diane Brayton as the Hearst Visiting Professional on April 4, 2023. Brayton, the executive vice president and general counsel for the New York Times, spoke to four different journalism and mass communications classes during her visit.
Brayton brought a wealth of experience to her position at the New York Times. Before joining the Times, Brayton had served as vice president and counsel in the legal department of Credit Suisse First Boston from 2002 to 2004. She also worked as an associate at the law firm of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton in New York, Moscow, and London from 1997 to 2002. In addition, Brayton clerked for the Honorable W. Eugene Davis of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit from 1996 to 1997.
Brayton's visit to the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications was particularly meaningful as she is a UNL college graduate, having received a bachelor of journalism degree. She earned a J.D. degree from the University of Texas School of Law in 1996, graduating with honors.
During her visit, Brayton shared her insights and experiences with students in four different classes. Her talks covered a wide range of topics related to journalism and media law, providing valuable perspectives to aspiring journalists and media professionals.
"We were thrilled to welcome Diane Brayton back to the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications as a Hearst Visiting Professional," said Shari Veil, dean of the college. "Her extensive experience in media law and her position as a key executive at the New York Times made her a valuable resource for our students."
The Hearst Visiting Professional Program is supported through an endowment created by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation.
