PNA Director, Legislative Affairs Barbara Hough Huesken will be retiring on Friday. She joined PNA in 2021 after a long and distinguished career at LNP (Lancaster). She spent her time at PNA advocating for public policy that serves the business interests of the news media industry; promotes local journalism; protects press freedom; and ensures open and transparent government across the commonwealth.
Her gift of building meaningful relationships with members and legislators was critical in elevating awareness of the essential role local news media plays in strong, engaged communities and a healthy democracy.
When reflecting upon her time at PNA, President and CEO Bill Cotter said, “Barb is one of the most experienced, passionate journalists I have ever met in my close to 40 years in the news media business in Pa. In her role as director of legislative affairs, she brought expertise, knowledge, and enthusiasm for protecting free speech and the First Amendment to legislators at the Capitol in Harrisburg, and in their districts around the commonwealth – all of which benefited our PNA members.”
He added, “Some of my fondest memories during my first year as president and CEO were the “member road trips” that Barb and I took around the state. She “lit up the room” when she offered a legislative update on what was happening with public notices, Right-to-Know, anti-SLAPP or Sunshine Act issues.”
PNA Media Law Counsel Melissa Bevan Melewsky shared similar sentiments. “Barb is not only one of the kindest people I have worked with, she’s also one of the smartest. One of my goals in life is to learn something new every day, and Barb’s willingness to share her vast knowledge of and insight about the industry, helped me meet that goal.”
“She worked tirelessly at the Capitol to advance the interests of journalists and media organizations as well as the public they serve, always cognizant that she was often the only voice advocating for the public interest. The crowning achievement of her tenure is the enactment of Pennsylvania’s new anti-SLAPP law, which will provide significant financial relief to PNA members faced with baseless defamation suits and protect free speech for all Pennsylvanians. Without her tireless work, the bill would not have become law. PNA members and Pennsylvanians in general are better off because of Barb’s dedication to free speech, government transparency, effective communication, and bridge building.”
“Barb has been the force behind our legislative efforts and is such a pleasure to work with,” added Catie Gavenonis, PNA legislative counsel. “At PNA, we deal with so many legislative issues, some big and some (seemingly) smaller, and Barb effortlessly worked with legislators to make our concerns and support heard, while not letting any one issue we faced take away from another.”
“Having Barb join the PNA Government Affairs team was an easy decision,” said Holly Lubart, former PNA vice president of government affairs and current consultant. “She connects with people, which is one of the fundamental keys in this job. And she also won over legislators with her amazing brownies!”
On behalf of the PNA staff, PNA board of directors, PNA members, and all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with Barb, we wish her all the best. As she embarks on this new chapter, may her retirement be filled with joy, relaxation and all the pursuits she has looked forward to – traveling, baseball games, and visits to the beach. Her contributions have been invaluable, and she will be greatly missed.
Please share your own well wishes by emailing Barb at barbarah@pa-news.org.