Journalists working throughout the United States face innumerable risks to their well being while performing their essential work, and the disturbing trend is only growing. 

Join us at 11:30 ET on Friday, May 5, for a discussion about concerns for journalists working in the U.S., an extension of important activities we are organizing around World Press Freedom Day. This virtual program, produced by the National Press Club Journalism Institute and the NPC Press Freedom Team, will feature firsthand accounts from journalists who have been arrested or mistreated for simply doing their jobs. 

New National Press Club Journalism Institute executive director named

The National Press Club Journalism Institute has appointed Beth Francesco, an experienced educator, press freedom advocate, and editor, as the organization’s next executive director. 

Francesco was unanimously approved to lead the organization, which is the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club, as it redefines and expands its professional development offerings and press freedom initiatives in light of journalists’ evolving needs. The Institute serves thousands of journalists throughout the country through its webinars, afternoon newsletter, scholarships, and other resources.

Francesco has served as interim executive director since October, when Julie Moos left the role after shepherding a period of rapid growth and a pivot to fully virtual services during the challenging circumstances brought on by the COVID pandemic. 

The Institute board determined that Francesco has shown incredible energy, initiative, and talent in driving momentum forward while planning a return to in-person activities and establishing infrastructure to expand the Institute’s service areas.  

“Beth has shown that when faced with a challenge, she can come up with new solutions,” said Institute President Gil Klein. “She has worked closely with Club teams to create programs that fit the Institute’s mission, and she has shown a drive to find new revenue sources that will expand its reach. She is the right person at the right time for this job.” 

Club President Eileen O’Reilly said she is enthusiastic with the choice.  

“I know that Beth will lead the NPCJI to its highest level yet,” O’Reilly said. “Beth has a steely strong commitment to our press freedom mission and our drive to foster excellence and opportunity for journalists everywhere, and I look forward to seeing what she accomplishes in the years to come.”

Learn more about Beth and her plans for the National Press Club Journalism Institute here.