Ozarks Public Broadcasting announces Scott Tong, co-host of NPR and WBUR’s Here and Now, as a plenary speaker at Missouri State University’s fall Public Affairs Conference 2024.

Tong will engage with the conference theme, “Between the One and the Many: Considering Community and Individualism.” Scheduled from Sept. 24-26, the event is free and open to the public.

“We’re delighted to have Scott Tong join this year’s Public Affairs Conference, drawing on his extensive journalistic experience both domestically and internationally,” said Rachel Knight, Ozarks Public Broadcasting general manager.

“I look forward to hearing his insights as we explore and consider this year’s conference theme on navigating the balance between individualism and collective responsibility.”

Tong, who assumed the co-host role at Here & Now in July 2021, previously served as Shanghai bureau chief and senior correspondent for American Public Media’s Marketplace. His reporting spans over a dozen countries, investigating critical issues, such as international adoption practices in China, labor conditions in brick-making facilities and environmental controversies in the U.S.

“As the region’s source for NPR News, KSMU is committed to fostering community dialogue and engagement,” Knight added. “Welcoming Scott Tong and making his presentation available to everyone in our community, underscores our dedication to meaningful engagement and public service.”

Tong will speak from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Sept. 26 in the Plaster Student Union Theater. Following his presentation, he will take questions from the audience.

Summit Preparatory School and DeSales Catholic Bookstore are sponsors of this presentation.