I just wanted to let you know that the Rio Grande Chapter board elections will be coming up soon. We’re really hoping some new folks will run.
This is Laura Paskus writing today, and I just wanted to share what being a board member has meant to me. I don’t know how many times over the past few years I’ve heard people predict the death of journalism. Being a part of the board has helped me push aside those lamentations and take an active role in proving that no, journalism isn’t dead. Sure, the business has changed. But that just means we have new challenges to address.
My fellow board members have inspired me by their dedication to the profession and to improving opportunities for all journalists in New Mexico and west Texas. Over the past few years, the Rio Grande Chapter has offered scholarships, trainings, workshops, panels–and opportunities for all of us to come together over food and drink. Each event was the brainchild of someone who cared enough about journalism and their colleagues to carve a little bit of time from their busy schedules and plan something cool for the rest of us.
I hope some new members–with passion for the profession and great ideas to help all journalists thrive–will run for the board this year.
And if saving journalism and proving naysayers and whiners wrong isn’t enough motivation for you: we also have snacks at our board meetings. (By the way, if you can’t make it in person, you can also call in to the meetings. The time commitment for board members is not overwhelming at all.) And really? It’s invigorating to spend a few hours every few months in the company of smart, funny journalists.
Also, if you’ve been putting off becoming a member of SPJ, today’s a great day to take the leap. You can sign up online at:
If you’d like more information about becoming a board member, please drop an email to RGC President Julie Ann Grimm: jgrimm@sfnewmexican.com