Current Location: Springfield, IL
Hometown: Chicago, IL and Pune, India
UIS Degree: Awarded B.A. Political Science, B.A. Sociology/Anthropology, 2010 (summa cum laude)
Other Degrees: EdM 2018 Harvard University, MSc 2014 London School of Economics, M.S. 2015 University of Southern California
Current Position: Broadcast Journalist. Assistant Director Media Strategy for University of Illinois Springfield & Social Media Celebrity/ Influencer. Former National Broadcast Anchor at TV9 Network & Times of India Group
Career Highlights
Priyanka Deo Jain, a distinguished professional with a remarkable international background, transitioned to UIS from The Times of India Group in New Delhi, India. There, she held a pivotal role in the chief operating officer's office, spearheading public relations, communications and government affairs. She also curated and anchored her own digital show which was nationally acclaimed. With a robust career at TV9 Network as an anchor and deputy editor, English, she was also invited to join the communications team as a core member for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2019 Lok Sabha national elections.
Noteworthy is Deo Jain's recognition as a national political commentator in India and a prominent voice among the youth on social media platforms. Her work has attracted attention from influential figures globally, including Prime Minister Modi himself. She was also awarded the prestigious Devrishi Narad Journalism Award (highest journalism honor in India) in 2022. Her outstanding accomplishments extend to establishing and nurturing a YouTube channel, 'New India Junction,' dedicated to showcasing positive developments across the country in support of PM Modi’s campaign efforts. It garnered over 130000 followers under Deo's leadership.
Priyanka remains a regular television panelist, columnist and social media influencer. Her articles are regularly published by major media outlets across India including the Indian Express, CNN-News18, Zee and WION.
Memories of SSU/UIS
During my time at UIS, I decided to max out my time and make the most of the tremendous opportunities that existed. I captained the UIS women's varsity tennis team playing at number one for both singles and doubles. I received that Lincoln Medallion; one of the most prestigious student awards in existence for my work for the Illinois Innocence Project. I was also the chosen speaker at the Governor's Mansion for the ceremony. I was awarded 'Outstanding Delegate' & 'Best Chairperson' at the National Model United Nations among 300 universities worldwide. For this, I was invited to Switzerland. I won a national parliamentary debate tournament for UIS. I interned for former Senator and President Barack Obama. I was also the commencement speaker at graduation. The culmination of all four years in those five minutes while speaking before professors, family, friends and peers is a moment etched in my memory forever! I will never forget the positivism and spirit that my entire UIS family showed me that day.
How did UIS change or prepare you?
“Besides a solid education, UIS taught me time management, meeting deadlines and organization. I pushed myself past my limit daily as a student at UIS. I always found that I had great support from professors and friends the entire team. This gave me the energy to have a successful academic journey both in and out of the classroom.
Interesting Facts
For her platform New India Junction, Priyanka has reported and created mini-documentaries on critical and historic events in India including Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370, the Ayodhya verdict and the protection child rights and the refugee crisis in Northeast India. She has also exclusively covered multiple events in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, interviewing global celebrities including Shah Rukh Khan.
Priyanka is a trained Indian classical dancer in kathak.