Original ‘Blue’s Clues’ Host to Speak April 5 at WT

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CANYON, Texas – Who’s headlining West Texas A&M University’s major Distinguished Lecture Series event for the spring? Here’s a clue. (A clue! A clue!)

Steve Burns, the original host of “Blue’s Clues,” will speak at 7 p.m. April 5 in the Jack B. Kelley Legacy Hall at West Texas A&M University, co-hosted by the Office of Student Engagement, Enrollment and Success.

Admission is free, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The speech will be livestreamed; more information will be released closer to the event.     

Burns hosted the long-running children's television program from 1996 to 2002, garnering an Emmy nomination during his run.

“Bringing speakers to campus is always a way to engage in conversations as a community, and it gives our students an opportunity to interact with thought leaders across the country,” said Mike Knox, vice president for student engagement, enrollment, and success. “We are especially pleased to have Steve Burns, who will be familiar to people of all ages and backgrounds."

Being responsive to the needs of a diverse campus community is a key goal of the University’s long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

That plan is fueled by the historic, $125 million One West comprehensive fundraising campaign.

In addition to serving as the host of “Blue’s Clues,” Burns served as a frequent writer, director and producer for the reboot “Blue's Clues and You.”

“Steve was a personality that many of our students grew up with,” Knox said. “‘Blue’s Clues’ was a staple growing up for this generation, and it was a groundbreaking style of children’s programming, similar to ‘Sesame Street’ for the previous generation. Steve has a personal story to tell about his own educational and professional experience that I think will resonate with students."

Burns also collaborated with Grammy Award-winners The Flaming Lips and wrote and performed the theme song for “Young Sheldon.”

“I grew up watching ‘Blue's Clues’ and I have seen Steve Burns go to other universities and give a great talk,” said Bryan Garcia, student body president. “I think it will be really cool for students to see someone they remember from their childhood come and talk to them as young adults.”

Burns will discuss the successes and failures he experienced after he left the television show, as well as re-examining messages of empowerment he began sharing 25 years ago.

“​Steve Burns is an iconic influential figure in children’s programming, beloved by children across generations thanks to the digital age,” said Dr. Kristina Drumheller, head of the Department of Communication. “His viral message to his fans during the pandemic was heartwarming and nostalgic, hitting just the right notes for all who loved him on ‘Blue’s Clues.’ I hope students will feel a sense of rejuvenation as they remember their childhood of clue seeking with Steve and Blue.”

Along with DLS, the Department of Communication will co-host a Q&A session for students to learn industry insights from Burns related to working in television, film and music.

“Steve has a great message, and he has a presence about him that will get students to listen! He will be talking about topics like leadership, mental health, and community, which are big for college students,” Garcia said. “Steve Burns coming to WT is a great way to show our students we know what they want to see and that we will go get it for them. I think it will have a great turnout and will set itself apart from other events we've had so far this year.”

About The Distinguished Lecture Series

The Distinguished Lecture Series was created to enhance education in the classroom by inviting people of national prominence to speak to WTAMU students and the community about important issues.

About the WT Department of Communication

The WT Department of Communication houses two undergraduate programs: Communication Studies and Media Communication, with three areas of emphasis in each program as well as the option to seek teacher certification in speech or journalism. The master’s program offers two areas of emphasis: one in Communication and one in Media Management. Both can be completed online.

About West Texas A&M University

WT is located in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT, a Hispanic Serving Institution since 2016, boasts an enrollment of about 10,000 and offers 59 undergraduate degree programs, 39 master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees. The University is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state and the home of one of the Southwest’s finest art collections. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 14 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

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