Press freedom programs move to NPC Journalism Institute

Press freedom programs will be conducted under the auspices of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, clearing the way for growth in the funding and number of events held around protecting 1st Amendment rights.

Foundations and other grant-making organizations will be able to finance press-freedom programs because the National Press Club's affiliate, the Journalism Institute, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Press-freedom programs previously were held under the Club, which is unable to raise nonprofit dollars for programs.

``Press freedom is under assault worldwide as never before, and we must raise our voices to combat this trend,'' National Press Club President John Hughes said. ``Moving press-freedom programs to the Institute will allow our activities to grow and thrive as never before, for years to come.''

As part of the change, the Book and Author Committee will move to the Club from from the Institute to help conserve Institute staff resources. However, proceeds from Book and Author events will continue to benefit Institute programs. The Club will also send the Institute financial support for press-freedom programs.

The Institute and Press Club boards voted unanimously to make the change, which became effective the evening of March 23.

While press-freedom programs will move to the Institute, the National Press Club will maintain its traditional role in press-freedom advocacy. The Press Club will issue statements and hold news conferences, and the Press Club president will serve as spokesperson on press-freedom issues.

The Journalism Institute for years has conducted professional development training programs under its 501c3 umbrella that previously had been done by the Club. It also awards scholarships to promote diversity throughout the journalism industry.