We empower trusted community voices and rebuild connection with local media through local leaders and inclusive journalism.

What we do

The LIFT Project is an engaged research effort focused on finding solutions to the challenges of news disengagement that contribute to the crises of disinformation and misinformation in our society.

Explore our work, community-driven approach, and strategies for building a more inclusive and trusted news ecosystem.

news

New Research Accepted for Presentation at ICA 2026

Professor Jarrad Henderson previously presented LIFT research findings at the International Communication Association Annual Conference in Gold Coast Australia in 2024. We are honored to announce that research from LIFT Minneapolis has been accepted for presentation at the International Communication Association (ICA) 2026 Annual Conference, to be held June 4–8 in Cape Town, South Africa. ICA is one of the most d competitive international gatherings in the communication schol

coloring book pages of Gordon Parks and Ethel Payne hang from table

Lifting Legacies Coloring Contest Winner

We are excited to announce the winner of our Ethel Payne/Gordon Parks coloring contest: Anna.

Elaine Cromie photographs Brant Wells, senior WKAR director, at Michigan State University's Communication Arts and Sciences building on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, in East Lansing, MI. Cromie guides students as they create portaits of individuals participating in early voting or connected to Michigan State University - By Megan Basile

Elaine Cromie: Environmental portraits, early voting, + MSU photojournalism students

We were honored to host Elaine Cromie , Detroit-based photo editor and photojournalist who directs visual journalism for Chalkbeat and...

Latest news

Research

We study media patterns and community perspectives in Minnesota, Michigan, and the Midwest.

research

Programs

We turn data into compelling stories. Our efforts unite researchers, visual journalists, and community messengers through events and trainings.

programs

LIFTxVoices

We partner with Pop Up Docs™ to host public workshops where researchers, media makers, and youth transform data into visual stories that highlight trusted messengers and community concerns.

LIFTxVoices