Dear NATJA Family and Friends:
The last several weeks have been thought-provoking given the results of the Derek Chauvin trial and the increase in assaults against Asian-Americans. One does not need to be political when it comes to seeking fairness, justice, protecting our communities, and following the rule of law. The work that NATJA is doing on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) becomes even more important. Special thank you for our Advisory Board and DEIA Committee members for your leadership and vision in forging this path. Respect for each other, our cultures and kindness is what is needed now more than ever. Please take a moment and reflect on the wonderfully diverse experiences we have all had with one another and throughout our travels, which has helped develop this vibrant and strong NATJA community.
We are proud and happy to announce that the speakers and professional development line up for the NATJA Virtual Conference & Marketplace is now complete. In addition to the ever popular Editors Panel, Rita Ferro, President of Advertising Sales for Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution will be a keynote speaker on “The Power of Branding.” We are rounding out our professional development with a two-part workshop focusing on the process of storytelling through video, led by Kimberly Schumacher, a veteran news reporter and senior lecturer in Communications, Media and Culture at Coastal Carolina University. Details on the workshop will be shared soon. You can learn more about the conference, which will take place June 2 – 4, through website at www.natja.org/conference.
Thank you to our Conference Planning Committee members – Suzie Dundas, Helen Hatzis, Betsi Hill, Barbara Marrett, and Gustavo Rivas-Solis – who have diligently worked to design a program that is relevant to tourism and journalism as we approach a post-pandemic world.
To all mothers, we wish you have a very happy Mother’s Day!
Be well and stay safe.
Warm regards, Helen Hernandez
Chief Executive Officer
