I bring over three decades of journalism experience to my new role as Executive Director of the First Amendment Foundation of Ventura County. Over the course of my 34-year tenure at CBS News Radio, I’ve earned six Golden Mike Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Radio and Television News Association, and recognition as a Distinguished Journalist by the Society of Professional Journalists. Through those years in a variety of newsrooms—large and small—I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for journalists to find the resources they need, especially in smaller markets. That’s why I’m deeply committed to preserving and strengthening Ventura County’s local news ecosystem.

 

Guided by the Foundation’s clear commitment to community engagement, my primary goal is to expand the support we offer freelancers, stringers, and emerging reporters across the region. Whether through practical training sessions, grant programs, or mentorship initiatives, I want to help raise the bar for local journalism and ensure a clear pathway for aspiring talent to pursue fulfilling careers. Above all, I believe fact-based, equitable coverage is vital to uniting our communities—giving everyone the information they need to shape a more vibrant civic life.

 

As I step into this position following Kevin Davis’s move to Board Chair, I’m honored to further the vision that originally sparked the Foundation’s creation. My background as an anchor, editor, and field reporter gives me a unique vantage point on how we can empower journalists at every level. I look forward to working alongside local media outlets, educational institutions, and community leaders to uphold our shared commitment to free speech and community-powered journalism in Ventura County.