From Ebony Chappel — 2021 IPCF Board President

2020, and now the start of 2021, have shown us the importance of truth, facts and journalistic integrity. I was honored to be asked to step into the role of IPCF president for such a time as this. This organization has, for many years, supported journalism students throughout the state – many of whom have gone on to work at major media outlets telling impactful stories.

Last year, in a deliberate effort to amplify the voices of journalists of color, we had our first paid fellowship with the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper which recently celebrated 125 years as the newspaper of record for the Black community in Indianapolis. This is just one of the many things I am proud to say IPCF has done to promote the future of our industry.

As we look ahead, the need for passionate, skilled journalists is crucial and I am excited to be a part of making that happen as the leader of this organization.

Thank you to Linda for all of your hard work these many years and thank you to each of my fellow board members for your unwavering support. Let’s continue to make an impact!

From Linda Jackson — Outgoing IPCF Board President

Before COVID-19 happened, before the resounding drumbeat of social unrest filled our hearts and minds until it could no longer be ignored, before the election and the saddening polarization surrounding it, I made the decision that 2020 would be my last year to serve on the Indianapolis Press Club Foundation board. Since 2011, I’ve had the honor to work with a terrific team of volunteers who are all passionate about the future of journalism and devoted to fostering the next generation of journalists. I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished to:

  • provide scholarships to students studying at Indiana colleges and universities
  • nurture the legacy of the late Indianapolis Star columnist Tom Keating through our annual writing competition
  • continue the great tradition of the Last Row Party at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway
  • establish a fellowship program that benefits students with paid internships and media organizations with outstanding talent, and
  • launch a new website to keep our supporters current on our mission

I’m grateful that we have such a capable and dynamic leader to fill the role of IPCF president moving forward. Ebony Chappel brings fresh energy and the skills needed to ensure journalism thrives in this new era. Ebony has served as the editor in chief of the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, as a radio host at Radio One, and in many other roles that amplify the multicultural voice in our community. While I will no longer be directly involved with this organization, I will always be a supporter and an advocate for quality journalism. Our future depends on it.