October 3rd, 2026 • 2026: Columbus
The Road to Becoming an Investigative Journalist
Investigative journalism is not an easy career; often, reporters will uncover hidden truths, corruption, or abuses of power that someone or an institution wants kept secret. Although investigative projects may take from a few months to a few years, student journalists can build these important skills early in their careers.
October 3rd, 2026 • 2026: Columbus
First Amendment from the Inside: How Journalists Can Report on Their Protections
In the wake of President Donald Trump’s order to ban news outlets CNN, MS Now and Politico from the White House, journalists are having to defend their right to report the news now more than ever, said Kirstin McCudden, chief of editorial for the nonprofit Freedom of the Press Foundation, and Dan Kubiske, chair of the Society of Professional Journalists International Community.
October 2nd, 2026 • 2026: Columbus
SPJ General Meeting Puts Ethics Code Changes, 2026 Election in Focus
With a room full of experienced, award-winning journalists and curious journalism students, the Society of Professional Journalists held its annual general membership meeting Oct. 1 to address issues including proposed bylaws and the 2026 SPJ election. SPJ President Chris Vaccaro opened the meeting agenda and thanked attendees for their excitement about this year’s conference.