Congratulations to Ethics Center Assistant Director of Journalism and Media Ethics and Social Sector Ethics Anita Varma, Ph.D., who was recently elected to the board of directors of The Society of Professional Journalists, Northern California Chapter (SPJ NorCal).
In her new role on the board, she will serve on the Education Committee, focused on student development, and the Professional Programs Committee, for practicing journalists.
SPJ is the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry through the daily work of its nearly 10,000 members; works to inspire and educate current and future journalists through professional development; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press through its advocacy efforts.
The Northern California Chapter of SPJ is a longstanding institution that supports journalists based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and cities and towns throughout the region. It advocates on issues that affect full-time news staff and freelancers, and hosts conferences, programs, workshops, and other networking opportunities to support professional growth and development.
“SPJ NorCal has done fantastic work in an especially challenging year for journalists and journalism,” Varma said. “When journalists stand together, we see the true power of the press to serve the public – against all odds.”