FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2026
CONTACT:
Jane Hungarter
janeh@pa-news.org
(717) 703-3041
HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation today announced the launch of the Center for Journalism Excellence, a new initiative dedicated to strengthening local journalism and supporting the journalists who serve communities across the commonwealth.
The Center for Journalism Excellence will focus on investing in reporters, advancing innovation in newsrooms, and ensuring Pennsylvanians have access to trusted, impactful local news. Through a combination of training, resources and strategic support, the Center aims to bolster the sustainability and effectiveness of local journalism at a time when it is more essential than ever.
“Strong local journalism is essential to an informed public, accountable government and healthy communities,” said Tanya Henderson, executive director of the PNA Foundation. “The Center for Journalism Excellence represents a bold and collaborative investment in the future of local news. By supporting journalists, fostering innovation and creating pathways for the next generation, we are helping ensure every Pennsylvania community has access to the reliable information it needs to thrive.”
The Center will support initiatives including:
• Journalism training and professional development to equip reporters with the skills, mentorship and resources they need to succeed
• Recognition of excellence in journalism to honor outstanding professional and student reporting that serves communities and upholds the values of a free and ethical press
• Programs that support newsroom sustainability and innovation to encourage new approaches to reporting, storytelling and audience engagement
• Student internships and career pathways into journalism to prepare the next generation of reporters
• Projects that strengthen public-service reporting to deliver meaningful impact in local communities
• Legal guidance and resources for journalists and the public to help navigate complex issues and protect public-interest reporting
“Pennsylvania is arguably at the epicenter of journalism innovation when considering the high quality of its newsrooms, journalism schools and industry thought leaders,” said Stan Wischnowski, PNA Foundation trustee and executive editor and vice president of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “The Center for Journalism Excellence gives us a chance to cultivate all that talent and ingenuity in a collaborative way like never before.”
The PNA Foundation is inviting philanthropic partners, industry leaders and community stakeholders to support the Center for Journalism Excellence and help advance its mission of strengthening local journalism across Pennsylvania.
For more information about the Center for Journalism Excellence or to learn how to support its work, visit https://pnafoundation.org or contact:
Tanya Henderson Executive Director Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation tanyah@pa-news.org 717-703-3002
About the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation
The Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation supports, sustains and advances local journalism across the commonwealth through training, advocacy and strategic initiatives, helping ensure strong news organizations and informed communities throughout Pennsylvania.