The New England Newspaper & Press Association (NENPA) honored three distinguished journalists and industry leaders with induction into the New England Newspaper Hall of Fame during a celebratory dinner at the 2026 New England Newspaper Convention, held March 13 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
The 2026 honorees — Jackie Majerus of Youth Journalism International, Steve Milone of North of Boston Media Group, and Lawrence “Poody” Walsh of the Eagle Times — were recognized for careers defined by excellence, service, and an enduring commitment to community journalism.
“These three individuals have left fingerprints all over New England’s newsrooms — in the stories they’ve told, the audiences they’ve built and the young reporters they’ve mentored,” said Linda Conway, executive director of NENPA. “They represent the very best of New England journalism, and we are proud to recognize their careers.”
The New England Newspaper Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their newspapers, their communities, and the industry across the six New England states.
Jackie Majerus, a veteran journalist and educator, was recognized for her lifelong commitment to mentoring the next generation of reporters. After a 25-year career marked by award-winning investigative work and a principled stand for newsroom integrity, she co-founded Youth Journalism International in 1994. Under her leadership, the organization has mentored and published more than 750 young journalists from around the world, building a global community grounded in strong reporting, ethics, and press freedom.
Steve Milone, Audience Director for North of Boston Media Group, was honored for more than four decades of leadership in circulation and audience development. Known for his expertise in subscription strategy, customer service, and team building, Milone has played a critical role in strengthening both print and digital audiences across the region. His influence extends beyond his organization through his leadership in industry groups and his mentorship of colleagues throughout New England.
Lawrence “Poody” Walsh, a legendary sports editor who devoted more than 50 years to community journalism, was honored for his lasting impact on local sports coverage and the journalists he mentored. Walsh was unable to attend the ceremony, and his award was accepted on his behalf by Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston, who covers the New England Patriots. Curran shared personal reflections on working for Walsh early in his career, describing the lessons he learned under Walsh’s guidance and the lasting influence Walsh had on his development as a journalist.
Throughout his career at the Eagle Times, Walsh earned a reputation for his dedication to local sports and his commitment to fairness and integrity. A pioneer in giving girls’ athletics equal attention, he is the only sportswriter inducted into both the New Hampshire and Vermont high school athletic halls of fame. His legacy continues through the many journalists he mentored and inspired.
The Hall of Fame dinner was one of several highlights of the annual convention, bringing together newspaper professionals from across New England for two days of learning, collaboration, and celebration.
Enjoy some photos from the event below.
