Penn State SPJ

A few reflections as I finished my term as national president of the Society of Professional Journalists … In a surreal, unforgettable, yet wonderfully ordinary moment, a stranger in the hotel elevator this week in Columbus asked me what this “journalist thing” happening at the hotel was all about. I explained SPJ. Immediately, she said, “Well, that’s amazing. Journalists are so important. What an incredible group of people. They really matter.” I smiled. I nodded. And I was nearly in tears because of how simple, genuine and profound the exchange was. I knew I was representing America’s oldest journalism organization for one more day. It was an unexpected moment that put a perfect exclamation point on this journey as I stepped off that elevator and headed to my final SPJ event as president. During my farewell address at the SPJ President’s Reception, my message was clear: It is a privilege to protect and fight for our First Amendment and press freedom rights. The U.S. Constitution and its generational significance have always been part of my “why.” The flag. The colors. The stars and stripes. A free press is a critical piece of our American democracy. Then, now and forever. But I also caution and remind my fellow journalists and media workers: While journalism matters, we have an enormous responsibility to practice it ethically. To be balanced and fair. To seek truth and report it. To minimize harm. To act independently. To be accountable and transparent. The very core of SPJ’s Code of Ethics is a North Star for our profession’s morals and values. Don’t abuse it. Don’t misinterpret it. Live by it. This past year has been both fulfilling and gratifying. It never felt like a burden because when you believe in something bigger than yourself and work alongside like-minded and like-hearted people, the work gets done and the impact is real. Finally, good luck and Godspeed to Nicole DeCriscio, our new SPJ president. She will hit the ground running, and as immediate past president, I’ll be rooting for her success and for the continued evolution and innovation of this organization. My term as president may be over, but my commitment is not. I’ll forever advocate for SPJ, for its mission, for journalists and for the freedoms that allow us to do this work. What a privilege it has been. 🇺🇸 🫡 #SPJ #Journalism #FirstAmendment #Media #PressFreedom #Leadership #Democracy