Your Guide to the PSPA Journalism Summit
- Joe Lendacky
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
Philadelphia, PA | April 24–25, 2026
If you’re a student journalist in Philadelphia—or even just someone interested in media, storytelling, and the future of news—this is the event you’ll want to be at.
The PSPA Inaugural Annual Journalism Summit isn’t just another conference. It’s a two-day, citywide gathering designed to bring together emerging storytellers, working journalists, and media organizations at a moment when journalism is rapidly evolving—and, in many ways, under pressure.
Hosted at WHYY, this free event creates something that student journalists don’t always have easy access to: real connection, real insight, and real opportunity.
Why This Summit Matters Right Now
Student journalism is in a complicated place.
Newsrooms are shrinking. Entry-level roles are becoming more competitive. Budgets are tighter than ever. And at the same time, students are expected to graduate with professional-level skills, portfolios, and experience.
That’s exactly where the Philadelphia Student Press Association (PSPA) steps in.
PSPA is a coalition of student-run newsrooms across the city, working to:
Strengthen campus journalism
Provide shared resources and training
Build pipelines into professional media
Advocate for press freedom and sustainability
This Summit is a direct extension of that mission. It’s not just about learning—it’s about closing the gap between student media and the professional world.
What to Expect
This isn’t a sit-and-listen type of event. The Summit is built to be interactive, practical, and career-focused.
By the numbers:
250+ expected attendees
10+ workshops and panels
12+ professional speakers
Across two days, you’ll experience:
Hands-on workshops
Industry panels with Q&A
Networking with journalists and media orgs
Direct access to recruiters, editors, and professionals
Friday, April 24 | 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Media Literacy Panel
In an era of misinformation and algorithm-driven content, this session dives into how journalists—and audiences—can critically evaluate information and understand the media’s influence.
AI in the Media Landscape
AI is already transforming journalism, from writing tools to audience targeting. This panel explores:
Opportunities for efficiency and storytelling
Ethical concerns
What AI means for future journalists
Saturday, April 25 | 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Morning Sessions (Pick Your Track)
Mastering the News Lede
Led by professionals from The Philadelphia Inquirer, this session breaks down how to write compelling openings that actually hook readers.
Landing the Live Stand-Up
A must for anyone interested in broadcast journalism—learn on-camera presence, delivery, and storytelling.
Social Media Tools
Understand how platforms aren’t just for promotion—they’re reporting tools, audience builders, and storytelling platforms.
Mid-Morning Sessions
Freelance & Gig Economy
Freelancing is becoming the norm. Learn how to:
Pitch stories
Build income streams
Navigate instability
Entertainment Journalism 101
Perfect for culture writers—how to cover arts and entertainment with limited resources while maintaining credibility.
Build Your Brand
In today’s industry, your personal brand matters. This session focuses on:
Portfolio building
Voice development
Standing out in a crowded field
Late Morning Sessions
Legal Threats & Press Freedom
Featuring experts connected to the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, this panel dives into:
Retaliation
Legal risks
Protecting your work
Community Journalism
How local reporting builds trust and impacts real communities.
Flytedesk: Midterms
A unique look at the business side of student media—advertising, revenue, and strategy.
The Keynote You Don’t Want to Miss
Renee Washington
Renee Washington is a dynamic sports broadcaster, former professional soccer player, and award-winning storyteller whose career spans the highest levels of sport, media, and leadership. A three-time All-American and Hall of Fame athlete at La Salle University, she went on to play professionally with Sky Blue FC (now Gotham FC) before transitioning into coaching at the Division I level with Lehigh University.
Her journey from elite athlete to media professional gives her a unique voice in sports storytelling—one rooted in performance, preparation, and authenticity. Renee has built an impressive broadcasting career working across collegiate and professional sports, with experience spanning NBC Sports, ESPN, FIFA, the NWSL, MLS, WNBA, and more. Locally, she has contributed to coverage with the Philadelphia Union, PHLY, and 6ABC.
More Than an Event—A Starting Point
The PSPA Journalism Summit isn’t just about attending panels.
It’s about:
Finding your place in journalism
Building confidence in your voice
Understanding where the industry is headed
Meeting the people already in it
At a time when the path into media can feel unclear, this Summit creates something incredibly valuable:
A way in.
RSVP for Day One and Day Two to secure your spot—and be part of the first-ever PSPA Journalism Summit.
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