Fox News’ Harris Faulkner visits Southern University, receives Prestigious Honor

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) – Emmy-winning journalist Harris Faulkner visited Southern University on Sunday, where she was honored for her contributions to journalism and community engagement.

Faulkner, the host of The Faulkner Focus and Outnumbered on FOX News Channel, became the first-ever recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence and Lifetime Achievement.

The event was celebratory, complete with a special performance by Southern’s renowned Human Jukebox marching band.

“To be serenaded by the Human Jukebox at 8:20 in the morning, and then I got to dance among the lines as they spelled ‘FOX’ for me—it’s just been a wonderful day,” Faulkner said.

During her visit, Faulkner met with Southern University students, offering insight into her decades-long career in journalism.

“I think it’s important to just learn how to navigate media, especially at a time like this,” said Najah Black, a Southern University student. “As a minority in this space, it’s important to see how to navigate media.”

A six-time Emmy Award winner, Faulkner has been a leading voice in broadcast news for nearly 20 years. She emphasized the evolving landscape of journalism, highlighting the rise of independent media while reinforcing the importance of credibility.

“Independent journalism and podcasting are here, and they share space with how people get their information,” Faulkner said. “I do still feel like when big things happen, people turn to those journalists they trust.”

Councilman Anthony Kenney of District 2 praised Faulkner’s visit, saying her presence was a powerful moment for Southern students.

“I was able to look up to so many great people, such as Ms. Faulkner, who has been an amazing figurehead in the news world,” Kenney said. “It’s amazing she’s coming back to give back to the current students at Southern University.”

Faulkner’s visit is part of Southern University’s ongoing efforts to connect students with industry leaders. On Monday, she will broadcast The Faulkner Focus live from the Baton Rouge campus, putting Southern in the national spotlight.