Conference committee

Committee Charge:

  • Focus on selecting the conference theme and overall structure of the event

  • Identify keynote speakers to support the conference theme

  • Develop the call for proposals

  • Improve representation of all groups in public media journalism through programming that is conscious of diversity, equity and inclusion

  • Ensure adequate funding to execute the conference through grants and sponsorship

  • Develop exhibitor strategy and participate in soliciting participation

  • Work with local host stations to ensure representation of local culture and outreach to appropriate local audiences

  • Outreach to non-members in the geographic region where the conference is held

  • Reviews ratio of resource input to impact to ensure PMJA time and resources are providing the greatest value for members

Committee Nature: This committee follows an annual planning and execution cycle, managing the same fundamental conference elements each year while evolving the program based on attendee surveys, session evaluations, and post-event analysis. Continuous refinement ensures each conference builds on previous successes while addressing emerging needs.

2025 Goals:

  • Enhanced Experience: Elevate overall attendee experience and engagement

  • Inclusive Programming: Focus on inclusion and belonging across all sessions

  • Expanded Reach: Increase conference impact and non-member participation

  • Sustainable Growth: Ensure long-term conference viability

2025 Initiatives:

  • Reviewing conference retrospective goals and evaluation outcomes

  • Developing 2026 conference theme

  • Preparing September call-for-proposals launch

Conference Retro & Report

Building PMJA2026: Goals from 2025 Retro

#PMJA2025 Conference Report

Back to Committees

Conference Committee

  • Megan Kamerick
    Megan Kamerick
    News Director KUNM FM
    Member
  • Doug Nadvornick
    Doug Nadvornick
    News Director Spokane Public Radio
    Member
  • Sarah Neal-Estes
    News Director WFYI
    Member
  • Joey Palacios
    Joey Palacios
    Engagement Producer and Internship Coordinator Texas Public Radio
    Member
  • Dawnthea Price Lisco
    Dawnthea Price Lisco
    Managing Editor, VPM News VPM
    Member
  • Clare Roth
    Clare Roth
    Managing Editor Ideastream Public Media
    Member
  • David Sommerstein
    David Sommerstein
    News Director North Country Public Radio
    Member
  • Emma VandenEinde
    Emma VandenEinde
    General Assignment Reporter KUNC
    Member
  • Bec Feldhaus Adams
    Bec Feldhaus Adams
    News Director Louisville Public Media
    Chair