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ASNE, APME agree to pursue merger plan
- By: ASNE staff
- On: 06/14/2018 10:16:05
- In: ASNE business
Columbia, Mo., and New York (June 14, 2018) - The American Society of News Editors and the Associated Press Media Editors are advancing a merger plan aimed at creating a new journalism leadership organization.
The executive teams of ASNE and APME met Sunday in New York City and agreed to proceed with merger recommendations developed over months of talks between the groups.
The new organization will support current news leaders, help develop emerging leaders and represent a stronger, more unified voice that defends a free and independent press.
"The proposed merger of ASNE and APME represents an opportunity to create a new and vibrant organization with an even stronger voice to defend press freedom, promote diversity and inclusiveness in content and coverage and build the next generation of journalism leaders," said ASNE President Alfredo Carbajal, managing editor of Al Día at The Dallas Morning News. "In proceeding with this merger, we also recognize and honor the legacy of both ASNE and APME, who for decades have served news leaders and helped to uphold journalism's highest values and standards."
APME President Jim Simon, managing editor of Honolulu Civil Beat, added, "We believe that working together will allow us to vigorously promote the values of a free press and educate the public about why that matters in a democracy at a time when journalism -- and journalists -- face extraordinary challenges. In partnership, we can play a stronger and more effective role in helping ensure a vital future for journalism."
The ASNE and APME executive teams will continue to hold discussions to formalize consolidation efforts, beginning with drafting a Memorandum of Understanding. Both groups will seek membership approval in conjunction with their joint News Leadership Conference, to be held Sept. 11-12 in Austin, Texas.
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2017-18 ASNE and APME Presidents Alfredo Carbajal and Jim Simon
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About the American Society of News Editors
The American Society of News Editors focuses on leadership development and journalism-related issues. Founded in 1922 as a nonprofit professional organization, ASNE promotes fair, principled journalism; defends and protects First Amendment rights; and fights for freedom of information and open government. Leadership, innovation, diversity and inclusion in coverage and the journalism work force, opinion journalism, news literacy and the sharing of ideas are also key ASNE initiatives.
About the Associated Press Media Editors
The Associated Press Media Editors advances the principles and practices of responsible journalism; supports and mentors a diverse network of current and emerging newsroom leaders; and champions the First Amendment and freedom of information. APME trains journalists to thrive in a rapidly changing environment and promotes forward-looking ideas that benefit news organizations and the communities they serve. The organization works closely with The Associated Press, the largest independent media operation in the world.