Journalists who are redefining how stories are told for digital audiences are invited to apply for the 2026 Pamela Tobey Award for Excellence in Visual Storytelling, a $1,000 prize and national recognition from the National Press Club Journalism Institute.  This annual design award recognizes visual journalism that pushes the boundaries of storytelling beyond text and…

To help journalists report on the high-stakes 2026 midterm elections, the Institute partnered with the Bipartisan Policy Center for a midterm coverage briefing.  BPC Elections Project Director Wren Orey led the briefing, offering insights into the recent executive orders on federal elections. In addition to the proposed legislation sitting in Congress, President Donald Trump in March signed an executive order regarding citizenship…

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are part of every community, yet their perspectives are often missing from the news — even when the story is about them.  IDD is an umbrella term that includes diagnoses like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and more. “If you’re not including people with…

To help journalists report on the high-stakes 2026 midterm elections, the Institute partnered with the Bipartisan Policy Center for a midterm coverage briefing.  BPC Elections Project Director Wren Orey led the briefing, offering insights into challenges that elections officials are facing this election season. Orey oversees BPC’s election administration policy and researches reforms to improve…

To help journalists report on the high-stakes 2026 midterm elections, the Institute partnered with the Bipartisan Policy Center for a midterm coverage briefing on April 23.  BPC Elections Project Director Wren Orey led the briefing, offering insights into challenges that elections officials are facing this election season. Orey oversees BPC’s election administration policy and researches…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute announced the 2026 cohort of its Public Health Reporting Fellowship, supporting journalists across the country in producing in-depth, community-centered reporting on critical public health issues. The fellowship provides funding and resources to help journalists pursue ambitious reporting projects that examine pressing health challenges, from access to care and health…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is excited to welcome Kris Seavers as its new training program coordinator. Seavers started on March 16. Seavers brings to the role more than a decade of experience in digital media, including a track record in both newsroom leadership and journalist development. At The Daily Dot, a news startup,…

Disability isn’t a niche topic. It impacts the lives of millions of Americans each day and appears across all beats.  But many newsrooms don’t have reliable resources for covering these stories, which can result in avoidable mistakes like outdated language, visual cliches, and sourcing that quotes everyone around disabled people except disabled people themselves. “The…

The war in Iran threatens to open a new era of nuclear proliferation, creating imminent national security risks and geopolitical consequences. For journalists who have not reported on nuclear weapons or policy before, the time to build sources and an understanding of the stakes is now.  To help journalists cover nuclear escalation, we spoke with…

Increasingly, U.S. journalists covering stories on domestic soil are required to take the same precautions as journalists in conflict zones overseas. Even the most prepared journalists are at risk of arrest, excessive force at the hands of law enforcement, and legal action for documenting the truth. So, how can newsroom leaders protect and prepare their…

Lessons on informed consent, safety considerations, and building trust Permission forms are among the essentials that journalist Elizabeth Shockman brings on reporting assignments.  Shockman, an education reporter at MPR News, often interviews children and families navigating difficult circumstances, with her recent coverage detailing impacts from the surge of immigration raids at Minnesota schools. Her interviews…

Disability isn’t a niche topic. It impacts the lives of millions of Americans each day and appears across all beats.  But many newsrooms still don’t have reliable resources for covering these stories, which can result in avoidable mistakes like outdated language, visual cliches, and sourcing that quotes everyone around disabled people except disabled people themselves. …

For journalist Arelis Hernández, covering immigration means resisting easy narratives. “There aren’t heroes and villains here. There are just people,” she said during an Institute panel on covering immigration with care. “And as much as we see — or want to see the world in certain ways — there are surprising stories when we flip…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute, in partnership with the Common Health Coalition, is excited to announce the 2026 Public Health Reporting Fellowship, a six-month, fully remote opportunity designed to give experienced journalists the time, resources, and expert support needed to tackle the most pressing public health issues of our time. Open to U.S.-based newsroom…

Dark money. Super PACs. Donation thresholds and contribution limits. These are big terms associated with campaign finance that may seem like a complicated barrier to covering elections.  With the upcoming midterm elections in mind, the Institute held a Jan. 16 webinar with Brendan Glavin, director of insights at OpenSecrets, to help journalists understand the terminology…

Since its founding in 2021, URL Media has grown from eight publishers into a national network of 40 media outlets serving historically underrepresented audiences.  Co-founders and media veterans Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita strove to build something different from the outset: A partner-first media company grounded in service journalism, hyperlocal trust, and collective power. Their growth strategy has been shaped…

Editor’s Note: The Institute is committed to providing journalists resources and connections that support their personal and professional lives. In 2025, we are collaborating with several groups to widen those networks of support.  The holiday season is a stressful time. As a person who has worked for both legacy print media and a small town…

The 2025 Fourth Estate Award Gala took place in the National Press Club ballroom on Dec. 9, 2025, bringing together journalists, communicators, and supporters from around the world to recognize excellence in a year of extraordinary challenges. The evening honored: You can learn more about the program in this visual guide, which includes information about the evening,…

As layoffs and budget cuts continue to beset the media industry, many journalists are turning to freelance work. Professional organizations like the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA), the National Press Club, and the Society of Professional Journalists can help ease the transition from staffer to freelancer by providing community support, resources, and networking…

Billy Stern is just your average 15-year-old. He enjoys playing football and basketball and hanging out with friends. But, unlike other teens, he’s also a small-business owner, running a weekly newspaper in the East Hampton hamlet of Montauk, New York. Stern’s launch of The Ditch Weekly — which he grew from a four-person operation to…

Editor’s Note: The Institute is committed to providing journalists resources and connections that support their personal and professional lives. In 2025, we are collaborating with several groups to widen those networks of support.  My New Year’s tradition — instead of lifting a glass of champagne — is watching the sunrise. While the rest of the…

Reuters journalists are the first recipients of the inaugural Pamela Tobey Award for Excellence in Visual Storytelling, housed in the National Press Club Journalism Institute. The award recognizes work that pushes the boundaries of compelling and creative storytelling through decisive design choices and includes a $1,000 cash prize. The winning project, “The unexploded bombs of…

As government cuts and the current shutdown threaten food safety and food access across the country, journalists need timely information about how communities may be affected. To connect federal food policy decisions to how Americans grow, sell, and consume food, Civil Eats launched the Food Policy Tracker earlier this year. As their coverage continues to…

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people are reported missing in the U.S. But media coverage of missing persons is often disproportionate, highlighting missing white Americans over people of color, who make up approximately 40% of victims. And many newsrooms do not have formal policies or guidelines for reporting on missing persons cases. To address…

Applications for the inaugural Pamela Tobey Award for Excellence in Visual Storytelling, celebrating the power of visual design to elevate journalism, inform communities, and deepen public understanding of complex issues, are now being accepted. Submit your best work by 11:59 p.m. ET Oct. 24. The annual award recognizes work that pushes the boundaries of storytelling…

Over the course of a year, the LGBTQ+ Media Mapping Project surveyed more than 115 local and 70 national media outlets to offer a deep dive into how outlets provided vital coverage for LGBTQ+ communities while facing shrinking advertising revenue and foundation support as well as rising external threats.  The project — a partnership with…

Florida announced the move to end vaccine mandates earlier this month, reflecting a nationwide trend of rising vaccine hesitancy. While this repeal won’t take effect for at least 90 days, the announcement has sparked protests, confusion, and public health concerns across the country. To help journalists with their coverage, the Institute reached out to Chelsea…

In journalism, an entrepreneurial spirit can transform a personal passion into a niche beat. As more reporters go independent, some have built audiences around specialized interests like theme parks, capitalizing on big stories like the $7 billion opening of Epic Universe this summer.  To see how journalists can turn a topic of interest into a…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is proud to announce the creation of the Pamela Tobey Award for Excellence in Visual Storytelling, made possible through the generosity of Rick Dunham, former president of both the National Press Club and the Institute, and his wife, Pamela Tobey, a distinguished graphics editor formerly of The Washington Post….

The federal takeover of D.C. law enforcement has unleashed confusion and fear among its residents and visitors.  So far, more than 2,300 National Guard members have been deployed to D.C., now carrying firearms. And arrests have surpassed 1,000 since the takeover began.   While the Trump administration touts this move as a way to combat crime,…

As local newspapers continue to shut down or shrink across the country, entire communities are being left in the dark. These “news deserts,” areas with little or no access to reliable local journalism, are growing. On campuses nationwide, student journalists are stepping in to fill the gap.  At student-run outlets, reporters are covering city council…

When New York Times climate reporter Lisa Friedman traveled to northern Alaska following the approval of the Willow oil drilling project, she expected to cover a familiar climate story. What she found was more complex. In towns like Utqiaġvik and Nuiqsut, climate change is not a distant scientific concern — it’s a lived reality. Homes…

With a new season of American football around the corner, journalists have the opportunity to explore fresh, local angles in their sports coverage.  To help journalists find this local lens, the Institute caught up with broadcast personality Kelsey Nicole Nelson, whose career spans both local and national sports coverage. Nelson currently hosts the sports talk…

Covering public health isn’t just about reporting on the science. It’s about earning trust, navigating risks, and elevating voices that are too often ignored. Five journalists experienced doing so firsthand during the inaugural Public Health Reporting Fellowship from the Institute and the Common Health Coalition. Over six months, the fellows explored urgent and underreported public health challenges from…

Instead of books, the wall behind journalist David Betancourt’s desk is lined with frames, each encasing his most prized interviews — from Tom Holland’s Spider-Man to Jason Momoa’s Aquaman.  Betancourt built a comic book culture beat from the ground up at The Washington Post. Now, the author of  “The Avengers Assembled” serves as an editor for Sports Memorabilia…

President Trump’s massive spending and tax bill became law on July 4. At nearly 900 pages long, the “Big Beautiful Bill” will impact all Americans — especially those relying on Medicaid.  To help journalists navigate this expansive bill, the Institute reached out to Julie Zauzmer Weil, who has been covering taxes at The Washington Post since…

President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” became law on July 4. Weeks later, journalists are still answering the big, beautiful questions: What policies are going to change, and which ones are going to stay the same? How will the new law’s provisions impact Americans across the country? Who and what will be affected most by the…

Across the U.S., environmental reporters are facing an increasingly difficult challenge: the disappearance of public data. Government records that once detailed scientific data — such as climate change and extreme weather risks — are being removed or made harder to find, often without explanation. For journalists who depend on these datasets to tell stories, this…

At the intersection of technology and community journalism, the Reynolds Journalism Institute Innovation team is transforming how newsrooms serve their audiences. From source diversity trackers to advising newsrooms on AI-powered workflows, RJI helps journalists and media organizations find new ways to advance their work through open source resources, programs, workshops, and other tools. The Institute…

Congress is closing in on a major decision about public media funding, threatening the future of PBS, NPR, and hundreds of local stations that rely on federal support to stay on the air. Early Thursday morning, the Senate passed the rescissions package, a bill that would eliminate $1.1 billion in federal funding for the Corporation…

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, student journalist Anjolina Fantaroni, alongside her best friend Fiona McAllister, drove into western North Carolina with a camera in hand and a mission to report on what she describes as “the most heartbreaking thing” she has ever covered. After a drive that took approximately two hours longer than usual…

Images often convey impact more immediately and powerfully than words, but with that power comes the responsibility to report ethically, especially in the wake of mass casualty events like the recent Texas floods. Visual journalists must navigate difficult decisions about what to show, what to hold back, and how to treat survivors and victims with…

The National Press Foundation (NPF) and the National Press Club Journalism Institute (NPCJI) have jointly awarded $43,700 to fund five reporting projects on environmental justice. This is the fourth year that the two leading journalism organizations have partnered to fund investigative reporting on disproportionate environmental harms.  The 2025 Kozik Environmental Justice Reporting grantees and their…

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine on Monday vetoed a proposed tax on newspapers and their production materials, aligning Ohio with a growing number of states taking steps to protect local journalism.  DeWine’s veto, issued alongside his signing of Ohio House Bill 96, preserved existing sales tax exemptions for newspapers, print advertising materials, and printing equipment. This…

After ABC’s Terry Moran was suspended over a social media post, questions around how journalists balance personal expression with professional impartiality — especially in today’s hyper-partisan environment — have resurfaced. Michael Koretzky, Society of Professional Journalists Ethics Committee chairman, has watched those boundaries bend and evolve for decades. The Institute spoke with Koretzky about how…

Five months into the second Trump administration, journalists responsible for covering the White House are navigating a more difficult environment, from changes to the press pool rules to verbal attacks and the threat of lawsuits related to coverage.   One newsroom that continues to draw attention from administration officials is NOTUS, a D.C. publication from the…

AI is rapidly transforming newsrooms everywhere, offering tools for journalists that can assist with research, images, planning tasks, and more.  Organizations like the Associated Press, The Haitian Times, and The New York Times are sharing how they use AI as well as ethical considerations.  Paul Cheung, an AI strategist and leading media executive, shared how journalists can…

To track how executive orders affecting transgender people are being enforced nationwide, the Trans Journalists Association and MuckRock have partnered to file hundreds of public records requests from federal, state, and local agencies. Nearly two months into the project, they have submitted 247 open records requests — and received just 42 responses from state governments….

Journalists have been making the news related to the protests in Los Angeles and elsewhere, and not just for the bylines and live shots that have come out of these events. A number of them have been arrested or harmed by law enforcement while out on the job, throwing freedom of the press, coverage safety,…

With LGBTQ+ funding being cut, resources dwindling, and civil rights under attack, journalists must work hard to connect sweeping national policies to local lived experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. “It’s important to let readers know, especially in a community that has a significant LGBTQ+ population, hey, this is going on,” said Bill Canacci, regional features editor for Asbury Park…

As debates over immigration policy continue to dominate national headlines, journalists on the ground are turning their attention to stories centered on immigrant communities.  The Institute reached out to Aline Barros, a multimedia journalist focused on immigration, for tips on reporting immigrant-centered stories. Barros covers immigration for Voice of America in Washington, D.C., where she…

NOTUS reporters Emily Kennard and Margaret Manto recently made headlines after breaking a bombshell story on how Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” report cited several studies that didn’t exist. Then, on June 11, they returned with another big takeaway: RFK Jr. used the report to advance vaccine misinformation. The Institute spoke with…

As protests continue in Los Angeles against ICE raids, journalists must know how to stay safe. In recent days, members of the press covering these demonstrations have faced violence from law enforcement, including being struck by rubber bullets and exposed to tear gas. According to Reporters Without Borders, at least 27 journalists have been attacked…

When the Institute last spoke to Ryan Restivo in 2023, his AI-powered Slack app YESEO had recently launched as a tool to help newsrooms with Search Engine Optimization (SEO) best practices.  Since then, YESEO has assisted newsrooms of all sizes publish more than 16,000 stories. The app analyzes copy for common words and offers five headline…

This week, the global economy has dominated headlines, causing a sense of whiplash for journalists and their audiences as they keep up with the latest on the Trump tariffs, looming trade wars, stock market ups and downs, and talks of recession.  To help journalists with their economic coverage, the Institute reached out to Mark Hamrick,…

From online harassment to doxxing, journalists face increasing digital security threats as a direct result of their work.  The Institute reached out to PEN America for a primer on digital safety. Viktorya Vilk, director, digital safety and free expression, and Tat Bellamy-Walker, program manager, digital safety training and resources (media), shared the following tips and…

This week, the Trump administration has announced that undocumented immigrants must register or face jail time; introduced a “gold card“ path to citizenship for the wealthy; and implemented changes to the leadership at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  Amid rapidly shifting policies and a lack of clarity about which ideas will actually be carried…

Editor’s Note: The National Press Club Journalism Institute is committed to providing journalists resources and connections that support their personal and professional lives. In 2025, we are collaborating with several groups to widen those networks of support.  My name is Taylor Six, and I am an alcoholic. I am also a crime and courts journalist…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute strengthened its impact in Washington, D.C., and beyond through its virtual and in-person programming, daily newsletter, and new opportunities for career support and skill-building in 2024. In a year marked by a dramatic presidential election, the rise of disinformation and distrust in information, and changes to the business of…

Candidates make a lot of promises along the campaign trail. And journalists have a duty to verify and track these after elected officials take power.  PolitiFact, a nonprofit fact-checking website operated by the Poynter Institute, has been keeping score of how many campaign promises have been delivered and broken by each president since 2009. First,…

Ed Kelley, a longtime champion for journalists with a background in local media and academia, will lead the National Press Club Journalism Institute as its 2025-26 president of its volunteer Board of Directors. The 15-member body provides the strategic direction and oversight of the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club.  “Particularly gratifying is when…

As the second Trump administration takes office, journalists are tasked with covering a wave of executive orders, cabinet confirmation hearings, presidential pardons, and more. To see how political reporters are meeting the moment, the Institute reached out to Matt Berman, managing editor at NOTUS, a nonprofit newsroom covering the White House, Congress, and federal agencies….

The Common Health Coalition and the National Press Club Journalism Institute have launched a new fellowship opportunity for mid-career journalists. The Public Health Reporting Fellowship will award up to $7,500 each to five individuals to support reporting projects focused on the intersection of public health policy and health care delivery. The deadline to apply for…

Climate change and its impacts will continue dominating the news cycle as extreme weather events become more frequent. And journalists play a vital role in covering these disasters with context, clarity, and urgency.  While the overarching climate story can feel formidable, research shows that audiences tend to tune out when the news is overwhelmingly bad….

The 2024 Fourth Estate Award Gala took place in the National Press Club ballroom on Nov. 21, 2024, bringing together journalists, communicators, and supporters from around the world to recognize excellence in a year of extraordinary challenges. The evening honored: You can learn more about the program in this visual guide, which includes information about the evening,…

Over the past week, journalists across the country have worked long shifts to cover the election results while grappling with what their profession might look like under a second Trump administration — one that poses a real threat to fact-based journalism, according to several press freedom groups.  To learn more about how journalists are experiencing…

Rich Glickstein, a trauma therapist, social worker and former photojournalist, shared with the Institute how journalists and their editors can identify burnout, and how (and when) to get help. What are the signs of emotional exhaustion to watch out for in yourself after reporting on stressful situations? What should editors look out for? Glickstein: Emotional…

Elliot C. Williams, a public radio journalist and educator, has joined the National Press Club Journalism Institute as its Training Coordinator. Williams will start in the role on Nov. 4.  In this role, Williams will develop and expand the Institute’s professional development portfolio, creating unique learning opportunities for journalists at all stages of their careers. …

Approximately 2 million people are detained in U.S. jails and prisons today — a 500 percent increase since the 1970s. But these perspectives are often overlooked in mainstream journalism.  Working with incarcerated writers can help fill gaps in coverage by offering lived experiences to stories about mass incarceration, criminal justice reform, public safety, and beyond….

More than 70 million people are living with a disability in the U.S. yet remain underrepresented in journalism produced by national newsrooms. To better serve this audience, the Institute asked Katy Neas, chief executive of The Arc, a nonprofit organization that promotes disability rights, for her advice on the types of stories that could elevate…

Yvette Cabrera, senior reporter at the Center for Public Integrity and a dedicated environmental justice journalist, will receive the National Press Club Journalism Institute’s 2024 Neil and Susan Sheehan Award for Investigative Journalism. Cabrera covers inequality in economic and social well-being with a focus on climate justice issues. Throughout her career, Cabrera has reported at…

In the U.S., more than 61 million people are living with a disability, yet they remain underrepresented in journalism produced by national newsrooms. To better serve this audience, the Institute asked Katy Neas, chief executive of The Arc, a nonprofit organization that promotes disability rights, for her advice on the types of stories that would…

The National Press Foundation (NPF) and the National Press Club Journalism Institute (NPCJI) have jointly awarded $45,000 to fund four reporting projects on environmental justice. This is the third year that the two leading journalism organizations have partnered to fund investigative environmental justice journalism. Each of the following grantees will receive $11,250 to fund their…

This summer, thousands of journalists are heading to Milwaukee and Chicago for the Republican and Democratic political conventions on July 15-18 and August 19-22, respectively. There are hundreds of events that occur at the political conventions – from breakfasts with state political leaders, to parties with lobbyists – that all culminate on the final evening…

Never underestimate the power of a headline. It may be the only thing a reader will see. Nearly 60 percent of news articles shared on social media were never clicked on, which makes the role of a headline more consequential than ever. To help journalists write strong headlines, the Institute and Resolve Philly’s Modifier produced a webinar featuring advice…

In the U.S., more than 61 million people are living with a disability, yet they remain underrepresented in journalism produced by national newsrooms. To better serve this audience, the Institute reached out to Katy Neas, chief executive of The Arc, a nonprofit organization that promotes disability rights, for her advice on the types of stories…

Many news organizations have shed jobs this year, but certain industry segments are hiring, including audience engagement.  The Institute reached out to Kelsey Harrell, engagement producer for the Tampa Bay Times, to learn more about her role, the skills involved, and what it takes to be successful. Here is an edited version of our conversation….

Trans people and DEIB programs are in the crosshairs of state leaders, legislatures, policy makers and school boards in 2024. Journalists must be prepared to responsibly report and share the impact of these efforts.  Here are a few of the many reporting tips shared by journalists covering these issues during a National Press Club Journalism…

In the U.S., more than 61 million people are living with a disability, yet they remain underrepresented in journalism produced by national newsrooms. To better serve this audience, the Institute reached out to Katy Neas, chief executive of The Arc, a non-profit organization that promotes disabilities rights, and asked her what kinds of stories would…

Research is the starting point for developing story ideas, gathering information, and fact-checking. And LexisNexis, a subscription-based database of legal, business, government, high-tech, and news articles, is a research goldmine for journalists.  LexisNexis contains many articles that are not available through a basic Internet search because they are behind a paywall. But with millions of articles…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute, along with collaborators PEN America and the American Psychological Association, explored what makes us spread political misinformation with experts last month ahead of the November election. Here’s what we learned:  Watch the webinar, Why We Believe: Framing the disinformation crisis for journalists:

Mis- and disinformation spread rapidly in politically charged times and certainly 2024 is one of those moments. Between April 10 and May 1, the National Press Club Journalists Institute hosted a series of conversation with reporters, election officials, and mis- and disinformation experts to explore why people may be susceptible to misinformation, to learn which…

Language barriers and historical marginalization can lead to the distrust of government, public health systems, and, ultimately, news sources among communities where English is a second language. Journalists play a role in combating the spread of mis- and disinformation in these communities through rigorous fact-checking, media literacy efforts, and targeted outreach.  Here are five strategies,…

Despite what you may think, anyone — yes, even you — can fall prey to believing and spreading rumors or disinformation. And in an information landscape in which we are flooded with news, rumors, conspiracy theories, and lies, discerning fact from fiction can become overwhelming and seem insurmountable.  The National Press Club Journalism Institute, along…

Investigative reporting is the hallmark of accountability journalism. But what does it take to become a good investigative reporter?  To learn more, we talked with Matthew Mosk, director of CBS News’ investigative unit, to learn what skills it takes to succeed as an investigative journalist, obstacles that he has overcome, why he finds the work…

Many news organizations have been shedding jobs this year, but there are still some segments of the industry that are hiring, according to the weekly email and Substack newsletter, “Inside the Newsroom.”  The publication, created by Madrid-based journalist Daniel Levitt, lists journalism job openings, internships, fellowships, events, awards, and salaries. The newsletter has a free option…

The National Press Foundation and the National Press Club Journalism Institute will jointly award up to $75,000 in grants to U.S.-based journalists who plan to cover environmental justice. Applications for the 2024 grants are open until April 24. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 will be awarded to support journalism in any medium that centers on environmental…

On March 1, a portion of the federal government could shut down and the rest by March 8. This is the fourth time in four months that a shutdown has been threatened.  To help reporters, Shai Akabas, executive director of the Economic Policy Program at the Bipartisan Policy Center shared where journalists can find resources…

Setting boundaries between work and personal life can be challenging, especially for journalists who often connect their work to their identity.   Psychologist Janna Koretz, in conversation with Washington-based journalist Kate Woodsome, shared advice for reporters on separating identity from work and navigating the current turmoil in the media landscape. Here are just a few tips from the Feb….

While much news coverage of firearm violence is reported through the lens of crime and politics, experts say this framing overemphasizes mass shootings and fails communities seeking solutions to gun violence. On Feb. 9, experts shared their advice on how to shift story framing to one that emphasizes solutions, prevention methods, and data.   Bookmark these…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is pleased to announce its 2024 Board of Directors. Five new directors join the 15-member body, which provides the strategic direction and oversight of the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club.  Coming from public and nonprofit newsrooms and academia, the new board members bring years of experience and…

Opinion polls are a staple of election-year reporting, and experts say that reporters should expect to have to wade through at least 1,500 national, state and local polls in this coming election season. But which ones should reporters trust?  On Jan. 26, journalists and polling experts joined the National Press Club Journalism Institute to provide…

Editors are looking for “fresh voices” among freelancers in 2024 — making now a good time to evaluate how and to whom you are pitching your ideas.  The Journalism Institute reached out to Washingtonian managing editor Patrick Hruby for his advice for freelancers heading into a new year and what writers can expect during the…

Covering the tumultuous House of Representatives Speaker race has been a test of endurance for D.C.’s congressional reporters. And heading into a presidential election year, political coverage will continue to dominate headlines. The Institute reached out to Nikole Killion, congressional correspondent at CBS News, to learn more about her reporting process, how to build connections on…

Search engine optimization — or SEO — is an important tool in a journalist’s toolkit. But as technology evolves, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest SEO best practices. To help demystify SEO, Ryan Restivo, an RJI 2022 fellow, created a free AI-powered tool for journalists called YESEO. The Slack bot reduces the time it takes for…

As misinformation — and misunderstanding — continues to circulate about COVID-19, journalists remain essential in providing crucial information to communities about the prevalence of the disease, the risks of infection, and how to prevent and treat COVID-19 illness. Bara Vaida, a health journalist before joining the NPCJI as its director of training, wrote this tip…

National Press Club Journalism Institute staff member Holly Butcher Grant has been promoted to operations manager for the nonprofit organization.  In her new role, Butcher Grant is taking on communication and programmatic initiatives in addition to her work growing the Institute’s reach among journalists and communicators throughout the country.  “Holly has been a vital team…

Every library contains a goldmine of resources for journalists. From academic research and government documents to the librarians themselves, reporters will find an array of tools in libraries to dig for stories and sources. April Hines, journalism and mass communications librarian for the George A. Smathers Libraries at the University of Florida, shared tips for…

Bara Vaida, an experienced health and science journalist who reports on business, consumer, wellness, and policy issues, has joined the National Press Club Journalism Institute as its Director of Training. Vaida started in the role on Aug. 21.   In this role, Vaida will develop and expand the Institute’s professional development portfolio and training strategy; create…

Journalists have covered one natural disaster after the other this summer — from deadly wildfires to destructive hurricanes. Climate change means these types of stories will happen more and more often, so how should reporters be thinking about their coverage? CBS News correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti spoke with the Institute about how he brings empathy to his reporting, gains the trust…

When a severe storm like Hurricane Idalia occurs, journalists rush in to cover the impact on communities. This work is sensitive because of the immediate dangers and the long-term recovery process. CBS news correspondent Omar Villafranca spoke with the Institute about ways reporters can minimize harm and support communities while developing important relationships for follow-up…

Mitch Harle, an experienced communications and fundraising professional in Washington, D.C., has joined the National Press Club Journalism Institute as its development manager. Harle started in the role on July 20.  As development manager, Harle will oversee and expand the Institute’s fundraising and donor relations operation. Harle will build the Institute’s strong service-oriented reputation among…

Ryan Restivo wants your journalism to be found.  He built an AI-powered tool to demystify search engine optimization. The product, YESEO, is a free Slack bot that reduces the time it takes to write SEO-friendly headlines with relevant keywords.  “How do we lower the barrier to entry for people to get the information they want at the time they…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is joining forces with the family of broadcast legend Edward R. Murrow and 2020 National Press Club President Michael Freedman this fall to produce a series of webinars titled “Why Murrow Matters: Ethics in an age of disinformation.” Under a newly approved grant from Oklahoma City based Inasmuch Foundation,…

Knowing when it’s time for a change is an important step in any career. For Maryland journalist Rick Hutzell, that moment came after 33 years at the Capital Gazette. Today, Hutzell is the Annapolis columnist for The Baltimore Banner. We asked him to share details about his move from editor to columnist, and to offer advice for…

Your article has been published and shared widely. The comments section is lighting up. Do you respond?  Engaging with reader comments might not be high on every journalist’s priority list, but it’s an important part of building trust and community. By responding to comments, journalists can continue the conversation, answer follow-up questions, and even combat mis-or…

Good editing is about consistency and connection, says Juliet Beverly, senior editor for BrainFacts.org.  Engaging with a story in multiple ways helps ensure its accuracy and flow, while taking time to meet with writers face to face — on Zoom or in person — leads to a better working relationship.  Here is Beverly’s advice on how…

The big investigation you’ve been working on for months just went live. But where is your audience? Audience engagement strategy is essential for all journalists, no matter the publication size, to connect carefully produced work with people who care. A good engagement plan starts with clear, tangible goals, says Narda Pérez, senior audience engagement editor at…

Accessible journalism comes with unique challenges and approaches, says Holden Foreman, who joined The Washington Post as its first-ever accessibility engineer earlier this year.  With many layers and constantly evolving technology, accessibility can feel overwhelming for journalists or newsrooms without funding to support a dedicated engineer. As part of his role, Foreman educates journalists about accessibility best practices, including…

Journalists don’t need a science degree to get the facts right when it comes to covering climate change, health and medicine, or new technologies.  We asked Nidhi Subbaraman, science reporter at The Wall Street Journal, for strategies to build sources within the scientific community and approach complicated topics in ways that resonate with readers.  What are…

Congratulations, you are writing — or thinking about writing — a book. While this can be a daunting undertaking, you can take small steps right now to help get published. We asked Olga Khazan, staff writer at The Atlantic, for her tips for journalists who want to publish a book. Khazan published her first book, “Weird:…

Political extremism presents two major challenges for journalists: The risk of platforming messages of hate and spreading disinformation that threatens democracy.  “We are concerned so much with being perceived by bad faith actors as being objective that we sacrifice telling objective truths in our journalism. And I think that harms us, and it harms our democracy,” said Wesley…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute strengthened its services to journalists in Washington, D.C., and beyond through its virtual programming, daily newsletter, and community initiatives in 2022. In a year when journalists faced challenges including decreased public trust and chaotic midterm elections, the Institute seized opportunities to serve 7,550 journalists, communicators, and members of the…

So you have a big idea for a journalism project that you want to publish in the new year. How do you get an editor to catch your pitch?  We asked Wilson Liévano, managing editor at The GroundTruth Project and director of training at Report for the World, to share tips for reporters pitching an ambitious…

The National Press Foundation and the National Press Club Journalism Institute have jointly awarded $73,920 in Kozik Environmental Justice Reporting grants to five journalists to fund stories on environmental justice. This is the second year that the two leading journalism organizations have partnered to fund cutting-edge investigative environmental projects. The grantees and projects selected by…

More than 61 million Americans live with disabilities, yet they remain underrepresented in journalism produced by U.S. newsrooms.  Experts in voter access, disability representation, and accessible news coverage shared best practices to improve coverage for voters with disabilities and to highlight the access issues they may face during a program produced by the National Press…

Journalists are amid a perfect storm of disinformation, threats to their work, and lagging resources to support local news outlets. Add in the essential role of journalism to defend against the erosion of our democracy, and practitioners face a critical moment to find solutions to the disinformation crisis. Psychological scientists and journalists covering the rampant…

Journalists are amid a perfect storm of disinformation, threats to their work, and lagging resources to support local news outlets. Add in the essential role of journalism to defend against the erosion of our democracy, and practitioners face a critical moment to find solutions to the disinformation crisis. Psychological scientists and journalists covering the rampant…

How can reporters find new ways to tell stories about legislative threats to reproductive health? We asked Shefali Luthra, a reporter covering the intersection of gender and health care for the 19th*, about how she approaches big policy stories in ways that connect with audiences. She’s written about the experience of seeking an abortion in…

Women have long been central in shaping history and in the public square, but only 24 percent of historical figures taught in public schools are women. So where are their voices?  The National Press Club Journalism Institute on Tuesday held a wide-ranging conversation on how women’s voices have been silenced and spotlighted in newsrooms and…

This is excerpted from a tipsheet produced by and republished with permission from the Society of Environmental Journalists.  Some colleagues talk of environmental journalism as the “apocalypse beat.” Accurate or not, you can be pretty sure that more disasters are coming soon. Hurricanes, wildfires, and droughts will soon be at a seasonal peak, and there will be plenty…

The National Press Foundation and the National Press Club Journalism Institute will jointly award up to $75,000 in grants to journalists who plan to cover environmental justice. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 will be awarded to support journalism in any medium that centers on environmental justice and environmental racism in the United States.  This…

Former White House photographer Pete Souza recently received a notice of copyright violation for a photo he took while working at the White House. A few weeks earlier, I got a similar notice from the same organization and, independently, we took similar actions that got similar results: The notices were retracted. In both cases, the notices…

Climate change is one of the biggest stories of our time. Journalists across all beats are covering the impacts of devastating floods, tornadoes, and wildfires as well as dangerous heat waves and pollution levels. Reporting on these catastrophic effects is a vital public service, but climate change also alters our world in subtler ways.    Grist published a series called “Coming…

I still wince at some of the things I did in pursuit of a story during my 31 years in newspapers.  After a fatal elementary school bus crash, I planted myself in the ER, intending to interview injured students and grieving loved ones. I got one or two.  When a chicken processing plant fire in…

The National Press Club, the world’s leading professional organization for journalists, has chosen four exemplary students as the recipients of its scholarships honoring promising future journalists serving their communities. The 2022 scholarship winners are: Anissa Carby of Miami Gardens, Florida, was recognized with the Wes Vernon Broadcast Scholarship totaling as much as $20,000 over four…

Religion is a dominant force in American life.  More than 75 percent of Americans said they identified with a specific religious faith, according to Gallup polling conducted in 2021. Yet the field of journalism is notoriously secular and largely averse to including religious angles and storylines.    If news organizations want to earn the trust of…

While journalists are chasing facts, some people are creating their own and spreading lies and disinformation designed to harm others. New York Times writer and author Elizabeth Williamson is among the journalists confronting the rampant rise and spread of conspiracy theories. In her critically acclaimed book, “Sandy Hook: An American Tragedy and the Battle for Truth,” Williamson…

Always get the name of the dog.  You’ve heard that reporting advice before, but here’s another reason it’s sound: Helping with information requests.  Record requests can feel rough — pardon the pun — especially when getting started. Three experts in using the Freedom of Information Act and open records laws shared advice to help journalists…

Since Larry Calhoun created DC Realtime News on Twitter in May 2020, the account has amassed more than 40,000 followers and become a source of news for local journalists, the general public, and even local elected officials. He is among other tweeters, including Alan Henney and Killmoenews, that have been part of the freelance/citizen journalism…

At a train station in Lviv where soldiers were saying their goodbyes and embracing their loved ones, Daniel Carde sees the humanity of war.  The freelance conflict photographer captured emotional scenes among soldiers and civilians in one of the most war-torn areas in Ukraine. “They were just joking and being friendly,” he said. “And then…

To keep up with the growing demand of a competitive digital media market, journalists are finding new ways to make their online writing more engaging. An experienced leader in online media engagement shared her most important lessons on writing successful online stories during the National Press Club Journalism Institute’s inaugural Writing Workshop in 2019. We’re revisiting…

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson recently signed the largest contract extension in NFL history — a noteworthy headline of its own. But journalists covering star athletes like Watson, who also has been accused of sexual misconduct by 22 women, face ethical dilemmas when deciding when and how much of those criminal allegations to include in…

Whether a story is for online publication within an hour or magazine publication within weeks, it is always crucial to follow a set of principles that define good journalism. Anything less than meticulous journalism can have catastrophic consequences. “The moment they can undermine practically anything that you say in a particular piece means that that…

Amethyst J. Davis is the founder of Harvey World Herald, the first local newsroom in Harvey, Illinois in more than four decades. Davis, 25, grew up in Harvey, a majority-minority town of about 20,000 people in the southern suburb of Chicago.  She is currently the only full-time staffer of the Herald, which was awarded $15,000…

Whether covering the celebrated cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., or a major political event, a picture is worth a thousand words. Just as reporters choose their words carefully to accurately tell a story, photojournalists must intentionally choose the story they are telling in their photos.  As I walked around the Tidal Basin this week surrounded…

Improving representation in news coverage takes consistent commitment — but not everything can happen overnight.  “A lot of these changes are institutional,” says Krissah Thompson, Washington Post managing editor. “And they take a long time given, especially, the scars in the community.”  Newsrooms have looked hard at the diversity of their teams, leadership, and coverage…

Newsrooms have looked hard at the diversity of their teams, leadership, and coverage in the last year, and many say they’re devoting consistent attention to hiring more journalists of color, investing in them, and supporting them in helping shift the stories that are told. Four leaders whose work focuses on recruiting and retaining newsroom talent shared how…

This year, we’ve shared 66 quotes on writing, editing, and the practice of journalism, culled from interviews, tip sheets, and Institute programs. We hope you’ll take time to revisit this fantastic advice as we look forward to the new year. Writing and editing Diversity, equity, and inclusion Covering COVID-19 Reporting on natural disasters and climate…

The Eric Friedheim National Journalism Library will be open on Fridays in December for members of the National Press Club and guests, following the same safety protocols as the National Press Club.  The library will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 3, Dec. 10, and Dec. 17, and will be closed…

Diversity doesn’t look the same from community to community. Op-eds can help, because they can be powerful expressions of thought leadership that amplify fresh voices and reach new audiences, according to a panel of op-ed newsroom leaders.   The following tips come from panelists:  Deborah Douglas, The Emancipator co-editor-in-chief Terry Tang, L.A. Times op-ed editor Kate…

Advocates of the independent, free press can display their support with an exclusive signed print from renowned cartoonist and writer Liza Donnelly. Donnelly has generously contributed prints of her illustration commemorating the importance of the free press in democracy, in conjunction with this year’s Fourth Estate Award Gala. The gala will take place on Oct….

Survey results and research studies are not inherently objective — they are the product of real people. When using data, it is imperative for journalists to understand the people and questions behind the data to put the results into context and eliminate bias.   Caroline Chen, a health care reporter at ProPublica, shared four questions she…

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2021 — The Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization covering the U.S. criminal justice system, will receive the National Press Club Journalism Institute’s 2021 Neil and Susan Sheehan Award for Investigative Journalism. Through award-winning journalism, The Marshall Project has revealed fundamental flaws within the criminal justice system and engages millions of people…

Not all polls are created equal. How can journalists spot a bad or biased poll and avoid amplifying it? Treat pollsters and polling companies the same as any other source. Just like any source, pollsters can get facts wrong. And sometimes there are bad actors that are not taking a rigorous scientific approach to their data….

Education reporters have documented the pandemic’s enormous effects on students, parents, teachers, administrators, and their communities. With policies changing quickly, how can an education reporter lift the voices of those most impacted?  These speakers joined a National Press Club Journalism Institute program to offer strategies for shaping stories driven by the voices of those underrepresented…

A poll, survey, or other dataset may look like an example of objective truth. But human choices shape the creation of a data product — and its interpretation. So how can journalists fairly report on this data? To answer this question, the National Press Club Journalism Institute and the National Association of Science Writers (NASW)…

Millions of residents in the U.S. risk losing their housing as a federal moratorium on evictions is expected to expire at the end of the month. Journalists who cover this critical situation have an opportunity to break out of old habits. That starts by reporting through an equity lens, said panelists at a National Press Club Journalism…

Journalism takes us places we might not otherwise see, leads us to people we might not otherwise meet, and prompts us to capture experiences we might not otherwise document. And journalists often carry those stories with them long after they are published. Whether you travel across the country or across the street for work, “You…

Amid rising attacks on racial, ethnic and religious groups, journalists are navigating the complex terrain around what constitutes a hate crime. So how can they cover hate crimes and other attacks on vulnerable populations? Here are some tips from a National Press Club Journalism Institute panel on Wednesday. First, understand what constitutes a hate crime The…

Sixty percent of Americans say they have little to no trust in the media to report the news fully, accurately, and fairly, according to Gallup. Republicans are far less trusting of news than Democrats, and marginalized communities have long mistrusted the media because they didn’t see their experiences represented on the front page or on the…

The National Press Foundation and the National Press Club Journalism Institute announced today that they will jointly sponsor a program that will award up to $100,000 in grants to journalists who plan to cover environmental justice. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 will be awarded to support journalism in any medium that centers environmental justice…

A newly established broadcast journalism scholarship supports diversity within the field while honoring longtime radio journalist Wes Vernon, a former National Press Club member.  The Wes Vernon Broadcast Scholarship will provide $5,000 annually to a student who demonstrates a commitment to a career in broadcast journalism. The award can be renewed up to three years…

Copyright violation is a rising legal risk for media professionals, said litigator and former journalist Chuck Tobin at a National Press Club Journalism Institute program on Wednesday.  “A generation ago we would probably be focusing more on defamation law,” he said. “But copyright law is the biggest growing area that we’ve seen in our media law practice…

“As knowledge workers, we are all becoming information officers,” said computational journalist Francesco Marconi. “The reality is that AI in data will become a crucial tool in our functions as we go forward.”  Marconi discussed how artificial intelligence is changing media at a program on March 26 hosted by the National Press Club Journalism Institute in…

As actors Steven Yeun and Youn Yuh-jung made Oscars history Monday, The Hollywood Reporter published the headline, “Oscars: Diverse field sees Asian actors shatter a bamboo ceiling.” Rankled readers criticized the publication on Twitter, saying the term “bamboo ceiling” was offensive. Many were unaware that the term originated from leadership strategist Jane Hyun, who used…

Hosting a Sunday news program requires “being allergic to ideology” and the ability to question everything, Margaret Brennan says. “In this age of hyper partisanship and hot takes, it is a constant mission to bring clarity around an issue,” said Brennan, who recently celebrated her three-year anniversary of hosting “Face The Nation.” Brennan has guided…

As much of Texas plunged into darkness earlier this month, Bobby Blanchard and his colleagues at the Texas Tribune sprung into action.   From launching a texting service to keep readers informed during power outages to fielding pressing questions from readers, audience engagement was critically important to serving the community.  But what does a typical day…

After a major breaking news event like the Texas storms, what should local journalists prioritize next in their coverage? We reached out to reporter St. John Barned-Smith, who covers public safety at the Houston Chronicle, for some ideas. Following the Texas storms last week, residents are dealing with everything from unsafe drinking water to damage…

Former NASA engineer Harleen Kaur is working to shatter people’s news filter bubbles. She co-founded Ground News with Sukh Singh to help combat disinformation, fake news and media biases. The platform compares how news sources across the political spectrum cover major stories.  Each headline is accompanied by a coverage analysis that shows what sources on…

The 2021 tax filing season is officially underway with the IRS accepting and processing 2020 tax year returns until April 15, 2021. The pandemic disrupted so much, journalists may be wondering what changed when it comes to taxes. We reached out to tax lawyer Kelly Phillips Erb, team lead, insights & commentary at Bloomberg Industry…

As with many African Americans, I knew fragments of my family history. My sister and I got bits and pieces from our parents and other relatives. But that information was painfully deficient compared to the comprehensive collection of data and evidence that began to surface after my cousin Denise Lester actually moved to Richmond, Va.,…

Is your audience “news literate”?  According to The Media Insight Project, there is a public disconnect surrounding basic news terminology: Half their survey respondents didn’t know what an “op-ed” was. (And three in 10 were unclear on the difference between “editorial” and “news story.”) This confusion only adds to the deteriorating trust that Americans have…

The Biden-Harris administration has signaled a dramatic shift on climate policy.  In the wake of “Climate Day” — the flurry of environmental executive orders signed on Jan. 27 — we asked energy and climate author Antonia Juhasz how journalists can prepare to cover the climate crisis.  “Reporting on the Biden administration’s executive orders and other…

Stephen King famously said: “If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write.” Whether you’re striving to improve your craft or aim pitches better, here are 10 newsletters to add to your reading list.   Chip in Your Inbox: Every week, writing coach Chip Scanlan provides lessons and…

The New York Times is acknowledging this afternoon that it made mistakes in handling the demise of “Caliphate,” its investigative podcast that was partially retracted.  When executive editor Dean Baquet went on “The Daily” to discuss the decision, he seemed to suggest that the news organization was still learning how to apply the same standards…

Why were the Capitol Police so unprepared on January 6?  As journalists unpack the Capitol Police’s response to the mob, a long-standing roadblock persists: The department is not subject to the Freedom of Information Act.    Chris Marquette is an ethics and accountability reporter at CQ Roll Call who covers the Capitol Police and explains different…

What can newsrooms do to help journalists cope with the trauma of seeing colleagues threatened and attacked by a mob storming the U.S. Capitol, sending a clear message: “Murder the media”? Keith Woods, Chief Diversity Officer at NPR, shares how leaders can support their teams, particularly journalists of color, during this tumultuous time. From your…

Wednesday’s siege at the U.S. Capitol held a mirror up for America to see itself, plainly showcasing deep-seeded inequity in the treatment of law-breaking white supporters of President Trump and the peaceful social justice protests of summer 2020.  “Many Black Americans, leaders, activists and even President-elect Joe Biden noted in the aftermath that had that…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Name: Steven Johnson Current job: Audience editor, Washington Post Previous Institute Q&A: Washington Post launches newsletter to…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Name: Tevin Wooten  Current job: Emmy® award-winning weather reporter and an on-camera meteorologist, The Weather Channel television…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Name: Bina Venkataraman Current job: Editorial page editor, Boston Globe Previous Institute Q&A: Why the Boston Globe…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Name: Anna Pogarcic  Current job: Editor-in-chief, The Daily Tar Heel, University of North Carolina Previous Institute Q&As:…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Names: Alicia Bell, Collette Watson & Joseph Torres Current role: Three creators of Media 2070  Previous Institute…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Name: Olga Khazan Current job: Staff writer, The Atlantic Previous Institute Q&A: Embracing the ‘weird’: Health reporter…

Throughout 2020, journalists across the country have shared their best practices for working through the pandemic. As we approach 2021, we’re asking what they learned this year and what they hope to learn in the year to come.  Name: Apoorva Mandavilli Current job: Science and global health reporter, The New York Times Previous Institute Q&A:…

At a time when journalism is under threat in the U.S. and around the world — with a global pandemic bearing down — hundreds of attendees gathered virtually for the Fourth Estate Award Gala, to celebrate four incredible journalists who have made significant contributions to the field.  Here are highlights from honorees Susan Zirinsky, Ed Yong,…

A deluge of polling data threatens to overwhelm reporters in the run-up to Election Day. We reached out to two polling experts to help guide journalists in navigating the numbers. Alan I. Abramowitz is the Alben W. Barkley Professor of Political Science at Emory University and Courtney Kennedy is the director of survey research at…

One of the country’s go-to COVID resources comes not from the Centers for Disease Control, but from a web developer based in Schenectady, New York. As COVID cases surged across the U.S. this summer, Dan Goodspeed found a unique way to visualize the numbers state-by-state over time. Using raw data from The New York Times,…

Like many of his readers, Washington Post audience editor Steven Johnson started feeling a “warped sense of time” as the pandemic ensued.  To regain a sense of stability and routine, he launched a newsletter called “What Day Is It?” that examines how the perception of time affects mental health. This 7-day email series offers to…

As journalist and educator Kat Duncan spoke with other female journalists about resources for reporting online harassment, she saw a critical need. “I wanted to create something that could help journalists document and deal with these incidents,” she said.  The idea led Duncan — the interim director of innovation for the Innovation & Futures Lab…

Since 2004, staffers at Reason have done what others in journalism typically don’t: They publicly announce who they plan to vote for in the presidential election. As in similar years, this year’s survey shows a preference for the Libertarian party. We asked Reason’s editor in chief Katherine Mangu-Ward about the history and response to the…

Indianapolis Star reporter Natalia Contreras and her editor Daniela Franco Brown began translating and editing stories in Spanish earlier this year as a way to serve the growing Spanish-speaking population in Central Indiana. This initiative led to the launch of La Estrella — IndyStar’s first newsletter in Spanish.  We reached out to Contreras by email…

After a long history of anti-Black racism in journalism, what would reparations look like? That’s what the founders of Media 2070 decided to explore, seeing that 50 years after the Kerner Commission report, not much has changed.  Media 2070, which includes a research essay compiled by staff from the nonprofit Free Press,  launched this week….

The Boston Globe endorsed Joe Biden for president. But unlike previous years, the editorial board made 12 cases for 12 different types of voters in an interactive project that ran with its traditional editorial. We reached out to Bina Venkataraman, editorial page editor at the Boston Globe, to learn how they produced the project and…

With early voting set to begin in the swing state of North Carolina on October 15, college newspaper collaborative One Vote NC has launched an online voter guide and election newsletter to help inform student voters across the state. We followed up with Sonia Rao, The Daily Tar Heel’s city & state editor, to find…

Great health reporting demonstrates the human implications of major policy changes, said Shefali Luthra of The 19th*.  Luthra — who joined the team in July — covers the intersection of women and health care. She previously reported on national health care and policy as a correspondent for Kaiser Health News.  We reached out to Luthra…

TIME has named investigative journalist Julie K. Brown one of its 100 Most Influential People of 2020, the magazine announced today.  Brown — whose “explosive reporting” on the late Jeffrey Epstein prompted a legal re-examination of the financier’s predatory behavior — was also the 2019 recipient of the Journalism Institute’s Neil and Susan Sheehan Award…

So you have a story idea but it needs a home. How do you stand out with an editor who sees countless pitches every day? We reached out to Prashant Rao, international editor at The Atlantic, for his advice on ways journalists can refine their pitches.  Rao has worked with journalists around the world; before…

To offer nuanced answers on race and gender issues, the Society of Professional Journalists has partnered with the Trans Journalists Association and other leading Black and LGBT journalists to launch a confidential hotline for reporters to ask questions without judgement. From properly identifying sources to insensitive phrases or photos, journalists can submit questions online and…

For Emmy award-winning weather reporter Tevin Wooten and his team at The Weather Channel, coverage this year has changed in “every way one could imagine.”  The pandemic complicated travel plans and resources. And hurricanes and wildfires intensified.  Sally — the fourth hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. this year — has inundated the Gulf…

Education reporting has been an “all-hands-on-deck” situation at the Centre Daily Times during the pandemic, says executive editor Jessica McAllister.  The newspaper — located in State College, Pennsylvania — is the hometown media outlet for Pennsylvania State University. Since students returned to campus on Aug. 24, McAllister and her team have reported on the rising…

Today marks the 19th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. In 2001, the front page of the newspaper remained one of the boldest statements in news.  10 years later, the way we got news started to shift from television and newspapers to the Internet.  In 2020, the coverage of major news events like the coronavirus…

During the pandemic we’ve heard from several great writers about how they are writing through the pandemic. Here are their top tips: Let your experience guide the narrative Sarah Maslin Nir, staff reporter at The New York Times: Living the experience is the key, right? … This is sort of the ultimate shoe leather. Elizabeth…

When Portland Press Herald social media editor Josh Linehan saw yet another tweet confusing Portland, Oregon with Portland, Maine he saw an opportunity for the Press Herald’s Twitter account.  The question: “Can you help me understand the Portland riots. Why haven’t you stopped the violence?”  Linehan stated the obvious: “Well, we’re a newspaper in Maine…

This weekend, the world mourned the death of actor Chadwick Boseman. On Sunday evening, 6.1 million viewers honored Boseman by tuning in to watch his leading performance as King T’Challa in “Black Panther” on ABC in an act of collective grief.  NPR’s TV critic Eric Deggans eulogized Boseman on Twitter: “After talking about Chadwick Boseman’s…

As Marco and Laura approached the Gulf Coast this week, local reporters prepared for a crisis within a crisis. While Marco weakened to a tropical depression on Monday, Laura strengthened into a Category 4 storm, making landfall early Thursday morning. Against the backdrop of COVID-19, evacuation orders impacted more than 1 million residents in Texas…

Resilience. It’s a quality familiar to many journalists. The ability to process hardship — whether personal, professional or both — and rebound stronger.  But sometimes even the most resilient can struggle, especially right now.  Here are three ways journalists can strengthen resilience on the job. 1. Write everything down. During a Journalism Institute conversation about…

The news release from the Kenosha (Wisconsin) Police Department on Sunday night said, “At 5:11 p.m., Kenosha Police Officers … were involved in an officer involved shooting.” Video released later that night by a lawyer for the family of Jacob Blake, a Black man, shows Kenosha police shooting at Blake several times. As newsrooms reckon with…

How does a journalist know when a story is going to be big? For Washington Post staff writer Erin Cox that moment came after some public records appeared in her email as she prepared dinner one evening with her husband. But it started on August 5 while she was covering a Maryland Board of Elections…

Until this month, the United States Postal Service didn’t make many headlines. Now, Motherboard senior writer Aaron Gordon devotes an entire beat to the mail.  Gordon started covering the USPS after learning last year that mail trucks were catching on fire. His reporting eventually sparked an idea to launch The Mail, a weekly newsletter focusing…

Editors at UNC-Chapel Hill’s The Daily Tar Heel responded to multiple COVID-19 clusters on campus with an unprecedented editorial. The headline: UNC has a clusterfuck on its hands. We emailed Anna Pogarcic, editor-in-chief of The DTH, to find out the story behind the unforgettable headline. Since in-person classes began on August 10, coronavirus cases appeared…

Seeing your work in print never gets old. For graphic designer Charles Apple, he’s getting that thrill several editions over.  For four months, he’s shared his full-page Further Review designs at no cost to any news organization that asks. In all, about 30 have published them, including Apple’s hometown paper.   “It was a matter of…

Religion can touch just about any story — from coronavirus to the presidential election. But  few newsrooms today have a full-time religion reporter. The Institute reached out to Elizabeth Dias, the national religion correspondent at The New York Times, for advice on how journalists can cover stories intersecting with faith.  What are your strategies for…

Anna Pogarcic, editor-in-chief of The Daily Tar Heel, knew something wasn’t quite right with the paper’s previous election coverage: It was out of touch with the community.  Inspired by Jay Rosen’s Citizens Agenda, her newsroom partnered with other student publications in North Carolina to understand what students wanted to know about the 2020 election. The…

For journalists who are parents, the stress may be about to get worse. Will schools open? Will children — again — have to learn remotely? Will the four walls of their house or apartment once again feel like they are closing in? Journalists can be a resilient breed. They run to danger when others flee….

Daniel Carde and his girlfriend had just cut some basil from the balcony garden and gone to the kitchen to prepare dinner on Tuesday. Then the building started shaking.  “We first thought it was an earthquake, but then the building shook harder,” said Carde, an American freelance photographer who has worked out of Beirut, Lebanon,…

The Washington Post this week adopted the Associated Press’ decision to capitalize Black as a racial identifier, with a twist. It also will capitalize White — a change the AP and other news organizations have declined to embrace. “In American history, many White Europeans who entered the country during times of mass migration were the…

Fake news isn’t new. But the Internet provides a unique environment for misinformation that it just might take a former government intelligence officer to understand. In the new book TRUE OR FALSE, former CIA analyst and disinformation expert Cindy Otis dissects the long history of fake news. She offers strategies she learned during her tenure…

To a sports writer, covering Major League Baseball during a pandemic-shortened season means fewer journalistic scoops, less access to players, and the fear that baseball writers roaming a clubhouse in search of stories may be a thing of the past. Paul Sullivan, the president of the Baseball Writers Association of America and an award-winning veteran…

When Secretary of Defense Mark Esper issued a memo that requires all contacts with news reporters to be coordinated through the Pentagon’s public affairs office, he highlighted a widespread practice that journalism advocates say restricts information, creates political “spin” and gags policy experts. The Pentagon is not the only federal department operating under such limitations….

The Trump administration this week ordered hospitals to send their coronavirus data to the Department of Health and Human Services, bypassing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Thursday morning, the CDC website that had been displaying the data was blank, prompting an outcry from journalists and members of Congress. Later Thursday, the CDC restored…

Issues spurring recent changes and pushbacks in journalism aren’t new, said Julian Rodriguez, a broadcast professor at the University of Texas at Arlington. They’ve simply become “more prominent because of how we perceive and understand inequality today.” “We have today’s newsroom heated discussions not necessarily because journalism is in decline but because we are seeking…

Armed with confidential data, The Kansas City Star last month identified causes and locations of coronavirus outbreaks that state officials had kept under wraps — from the Tyson meatpacking plant near Garden City, Kan., to the keg party west of Topeka. The document came from a trove of records that Columbia University’s Brown Institute for…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is offering new upcoming programs as part of its ongoing series of community conversations: The art & craft of the interview: How to deeply listen (July 17, 4 pm to 4:45 pm EDT). Do you listen, or do you wait to ask? Join two of the best interviewers in…

Language changes constantly. So should how journalists use it.  “It’s our responsibility as journalists to listen to our sources and audiences and pay close attention to the subtleties and nuances of our language as it evolves,” says Rachele Kanigel, editor of The Diversity Style Guide.  As newsrooms work to ensure social justice pervades all beats…

The NFL has shared its COVID-19 protocols for the 2020 training camp and preseason. And it looks dramatically different from previous years. “Training camp for reporters is such a valuable time — both for beat writers and national writers who ordinarily travel to different camps and get to speak with players and coaches from a…

The pandemic, economic struggles and the most recent demands for social justice are forcing newsrooms to account for their own failures at diversity, inclusion and representative coverage. The work of sustaining change will fall on the incoming generation of journalists. As the National Press Club Journalism Institute spotlights recent graduates ready to pursue careers in…

There is a “reckoning moment” happening in the industry today. As newsrooms work to address racial inequities within, we reached out to journalism schools to learn how academia can help. “There is no pipeline problem,” said Robert Hernandez, USC Annenberg School of Journalism associate professor of professional practice, last week. “J-schools across the country have…

When community leaders appealed to The Philadelphia Inquirer last week to change how it covered the city’s diverse population, they proposed an advisory board to help develop crime coverage policies, including ways for people named in crime stories to have the stories removed from the Inquirer website.’ The idea — often called the right to…

The journalism world is pretty small. For journalists who identify as trans, that world felt even smaller — until this week.  The Trans Journalists Association launched Tuesday. Ashley Dejean helped start the group after seeking out other trans journalists — and coming up short for a centralized group. They started a Facebook group that evolved…

Bryndon Minter changed NFL history when he went rogue earlier this month to produce an anti-racism video with the League’s leading players. That video prompted commissioner Roger Goodell to say the words players had been waiting years to hear: Black lives matter. Minter’s history of going rogue started much earlier, though, when he was an…

A year ago, Cleveland’s ABC affiliate Channel 5 pulled back the curtain on its decision-making to tell online readers why it did not run mugshot galleries and stories inspired by mugshots. That peek into newsroom thinking would become an ongoing series. Led by Digital Director Joe Donatelli, the station offers chatty, candid, blunt insider details…

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is spotlighting the next generation of journalists, students graduating from college or master’s programs this spring into a challenging job market.  As part of this series, we ask accomplished journalists for their advice. Ed Yong, staff writer for The Atlantic, provided guidance that applies to both new and seasoned reporters alike.

Financial straits at U.S. newspapers continue to take their toll on jobs. It’s hard to know what to do — or say — when a furlough or layoff affects people you care about (yourself included).  In the last two weeks alone, Hawaii’s largest daily newspaper, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, said it will cut 29 newsroom positions…

Creativity is a process. Maintaining a creative habit can be tough.  The following exercises can help you think visually and break through ruts. Word association games  When you get stuck breaking down a big concept for illustrations or photos — visualizing “community,” for example — try a word association game. Set a timer two minutes….

Two months ago, Cara Anthony was writing about pandemic anxiety in public housing and the challenges COVID-19 places on multigenerational families. Then George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police while in custody, and Anthony knew she needed to get back to Darnell Hill. She had first met Hill in February while reporting for Kaiser Health…

Practice doesn’t make perfect in design – but it certainly can improve your work over time. But where do you start if you don’t have funds for software or a background in design?  Dozens of free tools offer both templates and tutorials to help journalists produce infographics, stock photos, social cards, fliers and brochures, even…

The Supreme Court’s landmark ruling protecting LGBTQ+ workers received widespread coverage in the media Monday. But the reporting largely lacked transgender sources, as Gillian Branstetter pointed out in a Twitter thread Tuesday. This is another facet of many newsrooms’ failures to provide inclusive journalism, two experts say. “I don’t imagine it would have taken a…

A political cartoon is worth a thousand words of opinion. And opinion has topped journalism-related headlines the last several days. An essay by Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas caused upheaval at The New York Times. A cartoon published in a Missouri newspaper shook up the family ownership.  Political cartoons can particularly rankle an audience….

It didn’t take long for donors to answer the call: $32,000 in 48 hours.  The convergence of the pandemic, economic stress and the killing of George Floyd has left Black journalists covering a historic intersection of their personal and professional lives. The work has taken a toll. “While publications ask Black journalists — both freelance…

Public opinion polling is a staple of political reporting. And campaigns love to second-guess them. So it wasn’t unusual for President Donald Trump to tweet his disapproval of a CNN poll this week that had him trailing Democratic opponent Joe Biden by 14 points. What was different was the Trump campaign’s demand on Wednesday for…

Nearly one-fifth of the U.S. population lives with an intellectual or physical disability. Multiply that number by their families and friends, says Kristin Gilger, and you get a sense of how large the audience is for inclusive reporting.  “There is some very good coverage being done about how people with disabilities are being affected by…

This week, major newspaper publisher Gannett stopped sharing mugshot galleries on GateHouse Media websites, joining a handful of other newsrooms including the Houston Chronicle, WRAL and WCPO. The move is part of a larger effort to address racial inequities and curb the spread of negative stereotypes. “Mugshot galleries presented without context may feed into negative…

Health scams. Protest arrests. Civil rights violations. The common denominator for many journalists pursuing those stories these days is PACER, a government website that provides case and docket information from U.S. federal courts. Seamus Hughes, Deputy Director of the Program on Extremism at George Washington University and an expert PACER user, shared his skills Wednesday…