As PNA concludes its centennial celebrations, we asked news media leaders to discuss the impact the association had on the industry as well as their own personal experiences working with PNA:
“Some of my favorite PNA memories are from the Winter Management Conferences. About two dozen of us would gather on a warm Caribbean island towards the end of winter to hear about trends and opportunities in our profession. We were networking before the term was widely used. It was a chance to talk with people who were experiencing many of the same issues. We always returned home with one idea that paid for the trip. Friendships shaped up there lasting to this day.”
– Dave Martens, former president of York Dispatch
“I think the thing that I am most proud about with PNA is its reputation in the industry of being the best and most innovating state association in the country. PNA led the charge in so many ways over the years. I attribute that to the great leadership of its member newspapers. Also, PNA had strong management teams throughout its history that did a great job in executing the vision.”
– Mike Donnelly, president of Indiana Printing & Publishing
“To live to be 100 years-old automatically means people and organizations have seen mountains of social and industry change. A century ago, ‘freedom of the press’ belonged to those who could afford the labor, materials, and energy required to publish one. A century later, we routinely see random citizens using social, electronic media to air their views and others who want to publish print products, don’t have to have tons of money to do it. The Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association has been there as a beacon of light for established, now-called ‘legacy’ media, and for the upstart trying to have a community voice. I congratulate PNA on its truly momentous anniversary and wish I could be here for the 200th as I’m sure the organization will continue to grow and help people committed to ‘freedom of the press’ adapt to always ‘what’s next.”
– Paul Bennett, publisher of Spirit Media Group
“I’m deeply honored by my induction last year into the PNA Journalism Hall of Fame. This recognition is meaningful in so many ways — from the stories I got to tell, people I got to know, the talented colleagues I worked alongside, and the impact I hoped my work had in making a difference in a positive way. I proudly display my award in my office and treasure this reminder of a career well spent rooted in truth, service, and the power of a free press. Thank you PNA for this incredible honor.”