University Calendar
The SCM Colloquium Series presents: How to Get the Guest OR Mixed Cocktail: Politics and Comedy
Join us for a conversation with former journalist and current Senior Segment producer on HBO's weekly political talk show, Real Time with Bill Maher, Mary Knowles. Mary will discuss the ins and outs of finding and securing guests for the acclaimed and often controversial show. Having worked with Maher for over 23 years, Knowles brings a passion for politics, a deep knowledge of current events, and of course, a sense of humor to her role in booking and coaching guests for the most fascinating and spirited political conversation on Television.
Earlier in her career, Knowles worked in more traditional news and informational venues, including CBS News, WNET (local public affairs programming and CHARLIE ROSE) and ABC News. She has also served as a consultant for THE DAILY SHOW, The World Science Festival and other film and television projects.
Mary’s expertise is in politics and policy conversation. She has covered every presidential race since 1988 in some capacity, including producing live spots from the convention floors with Al Franken and Arianna Huffington in 1996, and navigating the Democratic Convention with Maher in 2008. She has put countless politicians and experts on television, often coaching them on maximizing their opportunity to convey their point of view.
Mary earned her masters degree in political science from Rutgers University (Newark) in 2008. Her thesis was titled, Why Women Run: Motivations for Entry into Local Politics. She has a BA from Tufts University in International Relations. She is a member of the International Radio and Television Society and former Fellow with that organization. She also volunteers with Emerge New Jersey, a training program for women who want to run for elective office. She lives with her family in Montclair, New Jersey.