Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 5 days ago
Local news and public media in the United States are facing what can feel like an unrelenting cycle of unsettling headlines--shrinking newsrooms, fragile business models, and growing gaps in community trust and coverage. Yet within this moment of disruption lie real opportunities for creative reconstruction. This panel explores how bold thinking, unconventional partnerships, and a willingness to rebuild, not simply preserve, can open new paths forward. Drawing on examples such as the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Public Radio collaboration, as well as AP Fund for Journalism's ambitious partnership between a global news organization and local U.S. newsrooms, panelists will examine what becomes possible when institutions challenge long-standing assumptions about structure, scale, and service. Rather than focusing solely on survival, this conversation invites optimism grounded in action. Panelists will discuss how innovation can help local and public media better serve communities, rebuild trust, and create models that are not just sustainable, but more responsive and equitable than what came before. Moderated by Richard Tofel. Sponsored by the AP Fund for Journalism.
Con: Kristen Mack (VP communications, fellows and partnerships MacArthur Foundation), Richard Tofel (media consultant), Rachel White (CEO Associated Press Fund for Journalism)
Local news and public media in the United States are facing what can feel like an unrelenting cycle of unsettling headlines--shrinking newsrooms, fragile business models, and growing gaps in community trust and coverage. Yet within this moment of disruption lie real opportunities for creative reconstruction. This panel explores how bold thinking, unconventional partnerships, and a willingness to rebuild, not simply preserve, can open new paths forward. Drawing on examples such as the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Public Radio collaboration, as well as AP Fund for Journalism's ambitious partnership between a global news organization and local U.S. newsrooms, panelists will examine what becomes possible when institutions challenge long-standing assumptions about structure, scale, and service. Rather than focusing solely on survival, this conversation invites optimism grounded in action. Panelists will discuss how innovation can help local and public media better serve communities, rebuild trust, and create models that are not just sustainable, but more responsive and equitable than what came before. Moderated by Richard Tofel. Sponsored by the AP Fund for Journalism.
Con: Kristen Mack (VP communications, fellows and partnerships MacArthur Foundation), Richard Tofel (media consultant), Rachel White (CEO Associated Press Fund for Journalism)
