Bob Schieffer of CBS, image courtesy of "Google Images"
Bob Schieffer of CBS made an appearance on C-SPAN to answer questions about political journalism and his career over the years.
Schieffer, the host of Face the Nation, joined students from George Mason University, the University of Denver via video, and Texas Christian University via the Internet. Steve Scully, a professor at the University of Denver, proctored the discussion.
It just so happened that everyone involved got to help celebrate Schieffer’s 73rd birthday with him as well.
The first issue that was brought up was where the healthcare bill stood in his mind.
“It’s a long shot if it’s going to get passed,” he said.
Schieffer and the students then went on to discuss the televised meeting of President Barack Obama with members of Congress earlier in the day to try and make progress on passing healthcare legislation.
Schieffer then went on to discuss his career over the years. When asked what he felt his purpose was in the profession, Schieffer had a simple response.
“To get news,” he said.
Schieffer told the students the biggest story of his life was covering the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
The conference was the most anticipated of the semester for the students to have a chance to meet and talk to one of the best in the journalism profession.
Schieffer’s final words of advice were about conducting an interview.
“Always ask the obvious question,” he said.
After a well deserved round of applause, the students joined together to sing happy birthday to Schieffer and conclude a fantastic student experience.