For the past two years, it has been my privilege to serve as president of the Press Club of Southwest Florida. My term ends in December, and several months ago, I informed the Board of Governors that I would not seek another term.
Leading the Press Club has been a rewarding experience. I treasure the relationships I have developed with our members and the opportunity to meet the remarkable journalists, public officials, educators and community leaders who have shared their expertise and experiences at our Newsmaker Luncheons.
I am stepping aside from Press Club leadership for personal reasons, but I remain deeply committed to the organization and its mission.
This is an especially important time for the Press Club. Journalism, and, even more importantly, the First Amendment, a free press, honesty and transparency, all face serious challenges from political division, misinformation, disinformation and propaganda.
The public has a right to know whether local, state and federal governments are operating openly, honestly and in the best interests of all citizens. Journalists play an essential role in protecting that right. So does the Press Club of Southwest Florida.
Our organization advocates for quality journalism, defends the First Amendment and the public’s right to know, and helps prepare the next generation of journalists through scholarships and mentoring. That work must continue, and grow.
Fortunately, the Press Club includes many talented people with the experience, judgment and leadership skills to guide it forward. Now is the time for some of those members to step up and become more involved.
The club will need a new president and treasurer. The Program Committee also needs a leader to help develop the timely, informative programs that are at the heart of our Newsmaker Luncheons.
Serving in a leadership position requires a commitment of time and energy, but it also provides an opportunity to help shape the Press Club’s future at a moment when its mission could not be more relevant.
If you believe in journalism, the First Amendment, government transparency and the public’s right to know, I hope you will consider taking on a leadership role.
It has been my pleasure and honor to serve as president. I am grateful to everyone who has supported me during the past two years, and I look forward to seeing new leaders bring their ideas, energy and vision to the Press Club of Southwest Florida.