ABC News journalist and “What Would You Do?” host John Quiñones will serve as keynote speaker for ETSU’s Civility Week, March 24-28.

A journalist known for asking a simple but powerful question — “What would you do?” — is coming to East Tennessee State University. 

ABC News veteran and Emmy-winning journalist John Quiñones will serve as keynote speaker for ETSU’s annual Civility Week, returning March 24-28. 

Quiñones, creator and host of the series "What Would You Do?", has spent 17 seasons exploring ethical dilemmas through hidden-camera scenarios that examine human behavior and moral decision-making. His appearance at ETSU reflects the university's ongoing commitment to fostering respectful dialogue and community engagement. 

"Civility Week is an intentional time for our campus community to reflect on what it means to live our values," said Joy Fulkerson, director of Leadership and Civic Engagement at ETSU. "It is an opportunity to practice respectful dialogue, engage in thoughtful inquiry and strengthen our shared commitment to one another. Through conversations, storytelling, workshops  and campus-wide experiences, we will explore how to build a stronger, more connected community." 

From migrant farms to network television 

Quiñones brings a compelling personal story to campus. His journey from migrant farm work and poverty to more than 30 years at ABC News, the anchor desk at 20/20 and Primetime, and eight national Emmy awards demonstrates the transformative power of education and perseverance. 

Recently inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences "Golden Circle" and honored with the "Best TV Host" award from  RealScreen  and the National Association of Television Program Executives,  Quiñones  has become a popular speaker known for connecting with audiences and delivering messages about resilience, integrity and doing the right thing. 

His presentations challenge audiences to examine the ethical decisions faced in everyday life – moments that test values and character when no one is watching. 

Civility Week events 

Quiñones will speak at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, in the D.P. Culp Student Center ballroom. The event is free and open to the public. Other events will be announced soon.  

A broader commitment 

ETSU's focus on civility extends beyond a single week.  

Only a few weeks ago, hundreds flocked to ETSU to hear from best-selling author John Green and world-renowned violinist Vijay Gupta during the Festival of Ideas.   Explore the many ways ETSU contributes to Appalachia at etsu.edu/our-region.