Bill Adair Speaking Fee: $10,000 and Below

Bill Adair's journey in journalism began at the Tampa Bay Times, where he immersed himself in diverse reporting roles. From covering small-town crime to delving into national politics, Adair's versatility shone through. As a metro reporter, he chronicled natural disasters; as a business correspondent, he navigated the complexities of the airline industry. His tenure as Washington Bureau Chief saw him providing readers with insightful glimpses into the inner workings of Congress and the White House. Notably, his investigative prowess led to the publication of The Mystery of Flight 427, offering a deep dive into aviation safety and the intricacies of crash investigations. In 2007, recognizing a growing need for accountability in political discourse, Adair founded PolitiFact. This innovative fact-checking platform introduced the "Truth-O-Meter," a tool designed to assess the veracity of political statements. Under his leadership, PolitiFact expanded its reach, establishing state-level affiliates and inspiring similar initiatives globally. The site's commitment to unbiased fact-checking was honored in 2009 with the Pulitzer Prize for National Reporting, underscoring its impact on journalism and public trust. Transitioning to academia in 2013, Adair embraced the role of Knight Professor of the Practice of Journalism and Public Policy at Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy. In this capacity, he has been instrumental in educating the next generation of journalists, emphasizing the importance of integrity and innovation in the digital age. Beyond teaching, he co-founded the International Fact-Checking Network, fostering collaboration among fact-checkers worldwide to combat misinformation. At Duke, Adair also directs the Duke Reporters’ Lab, a hub dedicated to exploring the future of journalism through technological advancements. His research focuses on automating fact-checking processes and developing tools that enhance journalistic accuracy and efficiency. This work not only advances the field but also equips students with the skills necessary to navigate an evolving media landscape. Throughout his career, Adair has been the recipient of numerous accolades, including the Everett Dirksen Award for Distinguished Coverage of Congress and the Manship Prize for New Media in Democratic Discourse. His dedication to journalistic excellence continues to influence both the industry and the audiences it serves, reinforcing the vital role of truth in public discourse.