America’s Newspapers Foundation Executive Development Class builds the next generation of newspaper leaders

Members of the Executive Development Class celebrate at the Mega-Conference, together with Mark Cohen, program director, pictured at the far left, and several of their session presenters, including Nick Monico, chief operating officer of Adams Publishing Company, pictured at the far right. (Photo credit: Mark Cohen)

Posted Tuesday, April 22, 2025 1:04 pm

This program continues to be a vital investment in the future of our industry. The 2024 graduates represent the kind of talent and commitment that will lead local newspapers into their next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Dean Ridings, CEO of America’s Newspapers

Fourteen emerging leaders from newspapers across the country have completed the 2024 America’s Newspapers Foundation Executive Development Program — a training experience designed to prepare the next generation of industry decision-makers. This year’s class represents the future of local news: committed, capable and ready to lead.

The Executive Development Program provides a deep dive into the business of running a modern newspaper. Over several months, participants engage in sessions on strategic planning, revenue growth, audience development, organizational culture, talent management and personal leadership. The program also includes individual mentoring and access to a network of industry leaders and subject-matter experts.

“This program continues to be a vital investment in the future of our industry,” said Dean Ridings, CEO of America’s Newspapers. “The 2024 graduates represent the kind of talent and commitment that will lead local newspapers into their next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Led by program director Mark Cohen, the 2024 class tackled real-world challenges and shared actionable solutions. “This year’s class showed remarkable insight, creativity and passion,” Cohen said. “They understand the mission of local newspapers and they’re ready to lead with vision and resilience.”

The 2024 Executive Development Program graduates include:

Kristin Bauer – Lorain County Printing and Publishing
Jackland Berry-McDowell – The Baytown Sun
Brandon Bowers – River City Newspapers
Jill M. Friesz – GS Publishing, LLC
Crystal Grammer Meharg – The Advocate
Alaysha Maple – The Sumter Item
Heather Mayer – Williston Herald & Sidney Herald
Chris Rausch – The Cape Gazette
Michelle Robinson – The Daily News (Galveston)
Robert Stoll – The Advocate
Yaritza Vazquez – Wick Communications
Sam Wagner – Iowa Information Media Group
Greg Weatherbee – Lufkin Daily News
John Wells – The Post Searchlight

The Executive Development Program was inspired by and supported through the generosity of the Inland Press Foundation. Additional support was provided by key industry partners including Legacy.com, Software Consulting Services, LLC (SCS), Seyfarth, Cribb & Associates and the SNPA Foundation.

Applications for the 2025-2026 Executive Development program will open on May 1. Look to newspapers.org and newspapersfoundation.org.

About the America’s Newspapers Foundation
The America’s Newspapers Foundation invests in the future of local newspapers through leadership training, research initiatives and programs that support sustainable business strategies. Its mission is to empower current and emerging leaders to build stronger newspapers for their communities.

Media Contact:
For more information, contact Dean Ridings, CEO of America’s Newspapers, at dridings@newspapers.org.