Tim Russert: One Man’s Impact on the Nation – HAI and Axiell Bring the Legacy of an Iconic Journalist to Life at John Carroll University
Lund, Sweden – 2 April 2025
Together, HAI, a leader in historical research and archiving, and Axiell, the world’s leading provider of software and services for the cultural sector, launched Tim Russert: One Man’s Impact on the Nation, a groundbreaking virtual exhibit celebrating the life and legacy of the iconic journalist at his alma mater, John Carroll University (JCU). The project, built in collaboration with JCU staff and students, blends HAI’s expertise in research and storytelling with Axiell’s state-of-the-art technology, CultureConnect, to offer audiences an immersive experience that explores Russert’s contributions to journalism, his commitment to truth-telling, and his lasting impact on public discourse.
For JCU students, the creation of the exhibit provided hands-on experience in archival research, curation, and digital storytelling, while also deepening their understanding of the importance of civic dialogue and engagement. Over three semesters, more than 50 students in JCU Professor Malia McAndrew’s U.S. history courses organized 156 linear feet of materials and 17 years of digital assets from the Russert estate. These materials included The Tim Russert Papers (1957–2009), which documented his personal and professional work, activities, writings, and interests, notably his career at NBC as senior vice president, Washington bureau chief, and moderator of the program Meet the Press. In conjunction with HAI and Axiell, students helped transform these raw materials into a dynamic and accessible exhibit that invites audiences to explore Russert’s legacy in journalism and public service.
Megan Anderson, PMP, Director of Quality Control and Special Projects at HAI, led the HAI team which collaborated with students. Together, they reviewed archival Meet the Press footage for accurate time stamps, organized and interpreted the collection, and ensured that the online exhibit was a positive user experience. According to Ms. Anderson, “This project exemplifies the power of history to connect generations, inspire civic engagement, and highlight the legacy of individuals like Tim Russert. We are so proud to have partnered with our friends at Axiell and John Carroll University to create such a meaningful and lasting platform, and to see future generations engage in public history was truly icing on the cake.”
Bringing History to Life Through Digital Innovation
Upon completion of the processing of The Tim Russert Papers and the digitization of high-level items, it was necessary that items in the collection be properly showcased to the public. Axiell’s digital engagement platform, CultureConnect, was selected to deploy the online exhibit. The CultureConnect platform offers a scalable solution that ensures Russert’s story remains accessible, adaptable, and audience-focused.
“We’re big believers in the power of technology to not only preserve history, but to help ensure people worldwide can actively engage and learn from the life and legacy of someone like Tim Russert. Digital storytelling is helping to redefine what’s possible in our industry, and we’re so proud to have played a part in creating such a powerful storytelling vehicle for local community and global audiences alike,” said Ryan Scapellato, VP of North America, Axiell.
Continuing the Legacy: Training the Next Generation of Historians
Featuring first-hand testimonials from those who knew Russert – including former NBC Justice Correspondent Pete Williams, JCU classmate Linda Meglin, and a pre-recorded message by Luke Russert, Tim Russert’s son – the October 2024 launch event unveiled the exhibit to 150 JCU community members, including faculty, alumns, and donors. According to Dr. Malia McAndrew, however, the impact of the project extends far beyond its unveiling. She said, “Engaging in a project with real-world impact and an authentic audience was transformative for students. As they deepened their understanding of recent U.S. history and Russert’s influence on journalism and public life, they also began to see themselves as historians—people with the power and responsibility to shape how history is told.”
As JCU looks ahead, the success of Tim Russert: One Man’s Impact on the Nation has laid the foundation for the next iteration of the project, which will begin when the physical collection returns to campus. During this phase, JCU students will work directly with the physical collection, developing plans for how best to display selected items on campus—including the famed whiteboard—while also archiving materials for safekeeping and future research. Together, these initiatives not only strengthen JCU’s commitment to project-based learning but also expand opportunities for students to engage in technology, communications and the humanities. In fact, several students who contributed to the exhibit are now considering futures in public history, underscoring the lasting impact of this work in shaping the next generation of historians, archivists, and curators.
Tim Russert: One Man’s Impact on the Nation is now accessible to the public. Visitors can explore this unique digital archive and discover how Russert’s legacy continues to shape the world of journalism and inspire new generations by visiting: https://russert.jcu.yourcultureconnect.com
About Axiell
Axiell helps 13,000 customers share cultural information and knowledge with the world. Our platforms, software, and services help customers manage their collections, preserve cultural heritage, enhance learning, promote reading, and increase public engagement and accessibility. Our customers are libraries, museums, archives, schools and authorities in 60+ countries. We develop innovative digital tools to transform the way our clients’ organizations work and communicate with their customers. If you want to know more about us and our products, please visit www.axiell.com.
About HAI
HAI’s research team comprises experts with decades of experience, analytical knowledge, and topical expertise, including a licensed private investigator. In addition to its greater Washington-DC-based team, HAI also has field researchers across the United States and the globe. To learn more about HAI, visit www.historyassociates.com.
Media Contact:
Lia LoBello-Reynolds of DC Communications Phone: 561.254.2802 Email: lia@ofdccommunications.com
For More Information: Emily Gumpel, Director of Marketing & Operations, North America Email: emily.gumpel@axiell.com
