The Summit
A Citywide Gathering for the Next Generation of Journalists
The Philadelphia Student Press Association (PSPA) is proud to present its Inaugural Annual Journalism Summit—a two-day, citywide event designed to empower student journalists, strengthen Philadelphia’s media pipeline, and build meaningful connections between emerging storytellers and working professionals.
At a time when student newsrooms are underfunded, entry-level journalism jobs are shrinking, and young reporters are being asked to be “job-ready” earlier than ever, this Summit creates something essential: space, access, and opportunity.
10+
Workshops & Panels
250+
Expected Attendees
12+
Professional Speakers
About PSPA
What is the Philadelphia Student Press Association?
The Philadelphia Student Press Association is a citywide coalition of student-run newsrooms at colleges and universities across Philadelphia.
PSPA exists to:
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Strengthen student journalism across campuses
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Provide shared resources and training
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Create pipelines between student journalists and professional newsrooms
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Advocate for student press freedom and sustainability
At a moment when student newsrooms face shrinking budgets, burnout, and limited access to mentorship, PSPA works to build a stronger, more connected local media ecosystem!
Where:
WHYY — Philadelphia
When:
April 24th & 25th, 2026
Address:
150 N. Sixth Street PHL, PA 19106
Workshops & Panels
Panel #1
Mastering the News Lede
Learn how to write compelling ledes that hook readers and set the tone for impactful reporting. This session breaks down techniques used by professional editors and reporters to craft strong openings under pressure.
Panel #4
The Art of Breaking News
A practical session on covering breaking news ethically, accurately, and efficiently—especially in high-pressure situations.
Panel #2
Landing the Live Stand-Up
A hands-on look at broadcast journalism, focused on on-camera presence, storytelling, and building a strong reporting reel.
Panel #5
Entertainment Journalism 101
A guide to covering arts, culture, and entertainment with limited resources while maintaining journalistic rigor.
Panel #3
Stand Out in Journalism
Explore how journalists build credibility, find their niche, and navigate early-career paths in a competitive media landscape.
Panel #6
Social Media for Journalists
Learn how to amplify stories, build trust online, and use social platforms as reporting and distribution tools.
Renee Washington
Keynote Speaker
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.
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Day One
4/24
5:30pm
Doors Open
6:00pm
Panel 1: The Art of Breaking News
Panel Discussion + Audience Q&A
Panelists: Melissa Mitman (Metro Philadelphia), Tamala Edwards (6ABC)
7:15pm
Panel 2: AI in the Media Landscape
Panel Discussion + Audience Q&A
Panelists: Danya Henninger (Technical.ly), Julie Zeglen (The Inquirer), Paige Gross (Tech Reporter)
9:00pm
End of Programming
Day Two
4/25
8:30am
Doors Open
10:00am
Mid-Morning Block (Concurrent Sessions)
Open Networking Session
12:30pm
Keynote Speaker
2:30pm
Closing Remarks & Wrap-Up
4:00pm
PSPA Inaugural Summit Trailer
The Philadelphia Student Press Association’s Inaugural Annual Journalism Summit brings student journalists together at a moment when storytelling, accountability, and community reporting matter more than ever. Across two days in Philadelphia, students will engage with working journalists, develop practical reporting skills, and connect with peers from across campuses and newsrooms. Through hands-on workshops, panels, and networking opportunities, the Summit is designed to strengthen the city’s student media ecosystem and support the next generation of reporters, editors, and storytellers shaping the future of journalism.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Partner with PSPA to empower the next generation of student journalists.
Bronze Sponsor
Make an immediate impact by supporting the next generation of Philadelphia journalists. Bronze Sponsors help power hands-on workshops while gaining visibility.
What’s Included
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Social media spotlight
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Guaranteed tabling at the PSPA Journalism Summit
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Logo placement on the sponsor banner
$500
Silver Sponsor
Silver Sponsors play a key role in connecting students to professional opportunities while gaining enhanced digital and on-site visibility throughout the Summit experience.
What’s Included
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Social media spotlight
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Guaranteed tabling at the PSPA Journalism Summit
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Logo placement on sponsor banner
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Logo placement on the Summit website landing page
$1,000
Gold
Sponsor
Gold Sponsors receive premium exposure and recognition across PSPA platforms while directly supporting skill-building, mentorship, and access for student journalists.
What’s Included
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Social media spotlight
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Guaranteed tabling at the PSPA Journalism Summit
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Logo placement on sponsor banner
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Logo placement on the Summit website landing page
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Newsletter spotlight
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Panel byline recognition read aloud by moderators
$2,500
All-Access
Platinum Sponsor
Lead the Future of Student Journalism
Our highest partnership level offers maximum visibility, deep engagement, and lasting impact. Platinum Sponsors are woven into the entire Summit experience and recognized as champions of youth media.
What’s Included
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Social media spotlight
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Guaranteed tabling at the PSPA Journalism Summit
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Logo placement across the entire event space
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Logo placement on the Summit website landing page
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Newsletter spotlight
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Panel byline recognition
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Keynote speaker byline recognition
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Dedicated email blast to attendees
$5,000
Our Partners
PSPA is built in collaboration with partners who are invested in the future of student journalism.
