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NEACE returns to Hotel Northampton for its spring conference May 4-5

The NorthEast Association of Communication Executives (NEACE) is thrilled to return to the historic Hotel Northampton for its annual Spring Conference on Sunday, May 4, and Monday, May 5, 2025. Don’t miss this dynamic gathering of regional media professionals, packed with thought-provoking sessions, expert speakers, and plenty of opportunities to connect.

🎟 Registration: $349 includes access to all meals, sessions, and networking events.

Sunday

  • Celebrate the weekend with fellow attendees at the President’s Celebration

  • Enjoy a complimentary dinner

  • Relax and mingle in the hospitality suite

Monday: A Full Day of Insights & Inspiration

  • Keynote: Shaun Palmer, Publisher of the Daily Hampshire Gazette, Greenfield Recorder, and Athol Daily News

  • AI for Customer Service: Scott Swanson of SingleComm explores cutting-edge tech innovations

  • Obituaries as Legacy and Revenue: Mark French of MassLive.com shares insights on one of journalism’s most essential (and often overlooked) verticals

  • Audience Growth & Paid Subscriptions: Daniel Petty of ProPublica offers strategy-backed guidance

  • Meeting Your Audience Where They Are: Teresa Hanafin of The Boston Globe brings her engagement expertise

  • Capturing Customer Feedback for Business Growth: Dan Christ of Advance Local shares how subscriber insights are shaping strategy

  • Lunch at the iconic Wiggins Tavern, vendor introductions, and more!

👥 Second registration: +$99 Bring a colleague, co-worker, or significant other for just $99. They’ll enjoy full access to all meals and events alongside you.

🌟 Sponsorship opportunities are still available! A great way to showcase your brand and support regional journalism.

👉 Learn more and register today

Let’s connect, learn, and lead the future of communications—together in Northampton.

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NENPA supports press freedom in a joint statement during Ethics Week 2025

In a powerful show of unity, a coalition of more than 50 organizations, including NENPA, that support press freedom issued a joint statement reaffirming the vital role of ethical journalism in a healthy democracy and calling on government leaders and the public to support the principles that guide the profession. 

The statement comes as the Society of Professional Journalists launches Ethics Week 2025, April 14-18, 2025, a time to spotlight the values that form the backbone of responsible reporting: accuracy, fairness, independence and transparency. SPJ plans to send the statement to all members of Congress. 

“At a time when misinformation spreads faster than facts, and government officials routinely attempt to delegitimize professional journalists, it’s more important than ever to stand up for ethical journalism,” said Emily Bloch, SPJ national president. “This coalition letter is a unified message: Journalism ethics aren’t a political weapon — they’re a public good.” 

The statement warns of intensified efforts to discredit reporters, restrict access to information and retaliate against those who expose uncomfortable truths — tactics that erode trust and undermine the public’s right to know. 

It also emphasizes that ethical journalism is nonpartisan and essential, not optional: 

“Attempts to delegitimize responsible reporting do not diminish its value; instead, they underscore the importance of a resilient, independent press that remains steadfast in its pursuit of truth.” 

The coalition urges citizens to critically evaluate the information they consume and support credible news sources. The coalition also calls on authorities to respect the role of a free press. “Citizens should hold government officials accountable for their treatment of journalists,” Bloch said. 

SPJ’s Code of Ethics, considered a foundational document in U.S. journalism, serves as a guide for ethical decision-making among journalists across the country. Ethics Week offers an opportunity for journalists, educators and the public to engage with and recommit to those standards.

SPJ champions journalists by recognizing outstanding achievement, fighting to protect press freedom, promoting high ethical standards and educating new generations of emerging professionals. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member and give to the Legal Defense Fund, First Amendment Forever Fund or SPJ Foundation.  

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2025 New England Newspaper Convention – A Weekend of Journalism, Innovation, and Community

From cutting-edge discussions on AI and branded content to skill-building sessions on interviewing, public records, and inclusive storytelling, the 2025 New England Newspaper Convention delivered two full days of practical takeaways and powerful ideas.

Held March 28 and 29 at the Portland Regency Hotel in Portland, Maine, the event brought together journalists, editors, publishers, students, and media experts from across New England.

This year’s program featured more than 20 sessions, keynotes, and workshops — covering everything from sales and marketing strategies to equity in journalism, First Amendment protections, and investigative reporting. Whether you came to learn new tools, connect with peers, or get inspired by industry leaders, the convention offered something for every corner of the newsroom.

On Friday, attendees learned from Shannon Kinney of Dream Local Digital about boosting digital ad sales (download slide deck), while Mike Donoghue shared decades of insight with 30 tips for better interviewing. Kevin Berrier of MDDC Ad Services showed how AI is reshaping advertising, and Cheryl Phillips of Big Local News introduced powerful tools for data-driven reporting. Dan Cotter, Terry Williams, and Mark Stodder discussed philanthropy as a sustainable model for journalism, and the Maine Trust for Local News team — Mackenzie Gregory and Molly Adams — unpacked their branded content success story (download slide deck). The day closed with a vital First Amendment Town Hall led by Aaron Julien and Rob Bertsche, followed by the annual Hall of Fame Dinner.

Saturday’s sessions opened with artist Alexandra Bell, whose keynote explored how bias in news design can distort narratives. Meg Heckman of Northeastern University discussed responsible gender coverage, and Sig Schutz of Preti Flaherty led a panel of public records experts, including Jenifer McKim, Judy Meyer, and Steve Greenlee. In a two-part hands-on training, Mike Reilley of JournalistsToolbox.ai walked participants through AI tools and fact-checking strategies. Lunch time featured the Yankee Quill Award Luncheon.

The day continued with discussions on equity in journalism from Emma Carew Grovum of The Marshall Project, narrative craft from Judy Meyer, Link McKie, and Mike Donoghue, and podcasting strategies from Monica Brady-Myerov (download slide deck) and Elaine Appleton Grant (download slide deck). Bell returned to lead an interactive workshop on rethinking coverage, while Larry Parnass moderated a panel of Publick Occurrences winners: Colin Flanders, Sruthi Gopalakrishnan, Rose Lundy, and Shaun Robinson. The final session of the day featured a timely media law refresher with Louise Carron and Rob Bertsche. The day closed with the Awards banquet, where the results of the 2024 Better Newspaper Competition were announced.

Each session offered tangible takeaways and fresh perspectives — whether the goal was to inspire a new project, strengthen newsroom processes, or simply reconnect with the power of good journalism.

Be sure to check out the full program, with links to our sponsors, the speakers, and the photo gallery below to revisit the people and moments that made the 2025 convention sessions and workshops so memorable.

A special thank you goes out to the USM Free Press for sending Emilyn Smith, Director of Photography, Abbey DeRosia, Staff Photographer, and Lucille Siegler, Business Manager, to cover the event and who contributed to the photo gallery.

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AP Fund for Journalism announces 1st program with nearly 50 local newsrooms including three NENPA members

The AP Fund for Journalism (APFJ) today announced its board of directors and a local newsroom pilot program in which it will work with nearly 50 nonprofit news organizations to support state and local news reporting.

Participating newsrooms include three NENPA members in New England, The Connecticut Mirror, The Maine Monitor, and VTDigger. Congratulations to these organizations on your selection!

The program marks the first such project for APFJ, the charitable organization created by The Associated Press in 2024 to support public service journalism and make it accessible to state and local news organizations in the U.S.

“Fact-based, independent journalism is the backbone of engaged communities and informed civic discourse. Local newsrooms are on the frontlines telling the stories that matter most to their audiences, yet often they lack the resources to do so effectively,” said APFJ CEO Rachel White. “This pilot program is a critical first step in our mission to close that gap, ensuring that state and local newsrooms have the tools they need to keep the public informed on stories and issues that wouldn’t otherwise receive coverage.”

Through the APFJ pilot program, which is supported by the Google News Initiative, participating newsrooms will receive a selection of AP text, video and photo content and access to editorial tools and training to further support their newsgathering work.

Learn more and see the full list of newsrooms selected at https://www.ap.org/media-center/press-releases/2025/ap-fund-for-journalism-announces-board-of-directors-1st-program-with-nearly-50-local-newsrooms/

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Journalism Advisory Organizations Issue Rare Alert to Student News Outlets

Student staff journalists and editors from around the country gathered at Nieman in Cambridge, MA to attend the Christopher J. Georges Conference on College Journalism on 4/5/25. Photo by Jodi Hilton/Nieman Foundation
Student staff journalists and editors from around the country gathered at Nieman in Cambridge, MA to attend the Christopher J. Georges Conference on College Journalism on 4/5/25. Photo by Jodi Hilton/Nieman Foundation

A coalition of national student media advisory organizations has issued a rare alert to student journalists, revising long-standing guidance on journalistic practices in light of what it calls an “unprecedented” threat to the free exercise of student speech on campuses across the United States.

The alert recommends that student media organizations “revisit their policies on takedown requests and anonymous sources, particularly for those whose immigration status may make them targets for their lawful speech.” It also advises being transparent with sources and audiences about anonymous bylines and sourcing, and educating staff on these issues. The group of signatories — comprising the Associated Collegiate Press, Journalism Education Association, College Media Association, National Scholastic Press Association, Quill & Scroll, and the Student Press Law Center — acknowledged that the advice represents a departure from traditional journalistic norms.

“Many of our organizations have existed for a century or more, and we have never before issued this type of alert. We do not do so lightly now,” the coalition said in its alert, which was issued on April 4.

Read more at https://niemanreports.org/student-journalists-press-freedom-splc/

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Congratulations to the 2024 Better Newspaper Competition Winners

The New England Newspaper & Press Association proudly congratulates all the winners of the 2024 Better Newspaper Competition! The awards were presented on March 29 in Portland, Maine, during a celebration of the region’s finest in journalism.

As New England’s largest journalism recognition program, the Better Newspaper Competition highlights the incredible talent, passion, and dedication that go into producing outstanding publications. Each year, this prestigious competition offers newspaper professionals the opportunity to be recognized for their exceptional work—work that informs, inspires, and strengthens our communities.

We applaud all the winning journalists, photographers, designers, editors, graphic artists, and teams whose work stood out in a competitive field. Your commitment to excellence in local journalism is vital to the health of our democracy and the vibrancy of our region.

Please view the presentations from the Awards Banquet below and download the 2024 Better Newspaper Competition Award Winners.

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Mark Your Calendar for Spring 2025 Journalist Meetups in Boston!

After another successful networking night in March, the monthly journalist meetup series continues in Boston this spring with three exciting events designed to help media professionals connect and collaborate in relaxed, social settings.

Spring 2025 Meetup Schedule:

📍 Tuesday, April 8 – The Dubliner, Boston
Join fellow journalists at The Dubliner, a cozy pub conveniently located near the Government Center MBTA stop, from 6 to 8 p.m. It’s a great spot to grab a drink, share ideas, and grow your local media network.

🎤 Tuesday, May 13 – Karaoke Night at Cathedral Station
Unwind and belt out your favorite tunes with colleagues at Cathedral Station (1222 Washington St., Boston). The karaoke kicks off at 9 p.m., but feel free to come by earlier and mingle!

🌺 Tuesday, June 10 – Tiki Tuesday at Tiki Rock
Celebrate the start of summer with a tropical twist! Head to Tiki Rock on Broad Street in Boston for Tiki Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. Expect good vibes, fun cocktails, and great conversation.

These meetups are open to all journalists and media professionals in the region, and organized by the New England Society of News Editors, the Boston Association of Black Journalists, the New England chapters of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA), the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, with support from the New England Newspaper & Press Association (NENPA). Together, these organizations are creating a space for meaningful connections and professional growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned reporter or just starting your journalism career, these events offer a fun, casual way to meet peers, exchange ideas, and build community.

Spread the word and bring your colleagues! To RSVP or for more information, email emily.sweeney@globe.com.

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Journalists Honored with Yankee Quill Award in Portland

The Yankee Quill Awards Luncheon, held on March 29, 2025 at The Portland Regency Hotel in Maine, honored four outstanding journalists and two historical figures for their lasting contributions to the profession. Presented by the Academy of New England Journalists, the Yankee Quill is the region’s highest individual honor, recognizing those who have shown exceptional dedication to the craft and values of journalism.

Mike Bello
A veteran editor and reporter, Bello was recognized for nearly 50 years of impactful journalism, including his work at The Boston Globe and his role in the Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.

Randy Capitani
Co-publisher of the Deerfield Valley News, Capitani was honored for his decades of service to local journalism in Vermont and his leadership in regional press associations.

Gloria Negri
Awarded posthumously, the late Gloria Negri broke barriers at The Boston Globe, where she spent 53 years giving voice to the underrepresented and mentoring generations of reporters.

Jacqueline Smith
With a career spanning over 40 years, Smith has been a fierce advocate for press freedom, including her role as ombudsman for Stars and Stripes and her ongoing work defending the First Amendment.

Henry and Benjamin Lindsey
The Lindsey brothers were honored posthumously for founding and publishing the Whalemen’s Shipping List, a vital maritime newspaper during the golden age of American whaling.

Scroll down for photo highlights from this year’s Yankee Quill Awards celebration.

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Four Honored at New England Newspaper Hall of Fame Induction in Portland

Four distinguished journalists were inducted into the New England Newspaper Hall of Fame during a celebratory dinner held on March 28 in Portland, Maine.

The 2025 inductees are:​

  • Stephen Kurkjian, a three-time Pulitzer Prize winner renowned for his investigative reporting with The Boston Globe’s Spotlight team.​
  • Paul Pronovost, former editor of the Cape Cod Times, recognized for his leadership and dedication to community journalism.​
  • Naomi Schalit and John Christie, co-founders of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, were celebrated for their commitment to investigative journalism and public service.​

Maine Governor Janet Mills attended the event to show her support for inductees Naomi Schalit and John Christie. In her remarks, she spoke passionately about the threats facing the country—including risks to national security and the economy—but said what terrifies her most is the potential loss of the First Amendment. “When it goes,” she warned, “we won’t even know that it’s gone because you won’t be there to report it.” Acknowledging the often complicated relationship between the press and public officials, she closed by expressing her deep respect for journalists and urging them to keep doing their essential work.

The Hall of Fame dinner, held in conjunction with the 2025 New England Newspaper Convention, brought together family, friends, and colleagues to honor the achievements and legacies of these remarkable journalists.

More than 100 individuals have been singled out over the past 25 years for their extraordinary contributions to their newspaper, the news industry, and their communities.

Scroll down to view scenes from the evening.

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Sunshine Week 2025: Celebrating Open Government and the Public’s Right to Know

As Sunshine Week approaches, news organizations are encouraged to recognize this important initiative by running editorials, cartoons, and content that highlights the value of government transparency and the public’s right to know.

Taking place from March 16-22, 2025, Sunshine Week serves as a reminder that open government is crucial for democracy. The initiative, encourages journalists, educators, and community leaders to engage their audiences on the importance of public records access.

Newspapers and media outlets play a vital role in promoting these values. By publishing thought-provoking editorials or powerful cartoons during Sunshine Week, publications can educate their readers about how transparency impacts everything from local budgets to public safety. Highlighting successful public records investigations or sharing tips for citizens on filing FOIA requests are great ways to engage readers.

The event is also an opportunity for civic groups, educators, and community organizations to hold discussions, host forums, and collaborate with local media to promote government accountability.

Local Events Include:
Understanding the NH Right-To-Know RSA 91a Law
Access & Advocacy: Using RI Open Government Resources for Civic Engagement

Sunshine Week is coordinated by Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications and supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and other partners.

For resources, editorial ideas, and content to support your Sunshine Week coverage, visit sunshineweek.org.

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