In the News - Dec. 15 2025

This regular column links to the most significant stories about Webster University or that quote Webster faculty and staff members.

Julie Smith Discusses AI and Its Impact on Behavior

Julie Smith discussed on KMOX a study that showed how AI can cause people to shift their opinions (conversation starts at the 8:24 a.m. mark). 

Smith also discussed AI psychosis, the theory that AI is contributing to people’s “delusional beliefs” by overusing AI chatboxes (discussion starts at 8:50 a.m.) 

Smith discussed a new Australian law that bans social media for anyone under 16, and discussed the difficulties that will occur in trying to enforce the law. The interview starts at 8:43 a.m.

Suggs Scholars Featured in the St. Louis American

Webster and the Suggs Scholars were featured several times in The St. Louis American’s print, online and social media around the Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship & Awards Gala. 

Webster's CMS Honored by Missouri Arts

The Sun Times wrote a story about the winners of this year’s Missouri Arts Awards Honorees, which includes Webster University’s Community Music School. KTRS Radio also ran the story (clip not online).

Webster Named a Top University for International Students and Study Abroad

KSDK ran a story about Webster being named one of the top universities for international students and for undergraduates interested in study abroad. KTRS radio also had a similar story that ran several times on Wednesday, Nov. 19. (Clip not online).

Sara McMullin Discusses Research on Alcohol Use

Sara McMullin, PhD, joined Mornings With Simi to discuss research on alcohol use, health effects and strategies to cut back during the holiday season. The segment starts at 33 minutes. 

Bill Hall Discusses Special Elections and Current Polls

Professor Bill Hall was quoted by Newsweek Magazine about the upcoming special Congressional elections and how President Trump’s policy may impact voter turnout. 

He also was quoted by Newsweek about recent polls that show President Trump’s numbers are improving. 

Webster Launches and AI Degree Navigator

KTRS ran a story about Webster’s degree Navigator that was launched earlier this month. (Clip not online).

Webster Finds Success in International Campuses While Other Institutions Struggle

The PIE  Network ran a story about the difficulty many universities are having with managing international locations. The story mentioned the Webster is an outlier and is one of the few institutions of higher education that is having success with international campuses.