The Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club has announced its Advisory Board for 2025.
WASHINGTON, April 13, 2025 — In a pivotal moment for global press freedom, the Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club has announced the establishment of its Advisory Board. This esteemed group, composed of journalists, legal professionals, and subject matter experts, will offer strategic guidance to the organization as it endeavors to protect journalists in distress, uphold the principles of press freedom, and provide indispensable support to individuals facing risks due to their journalistic activities.
As global challenges to press freedom continue to escalate, the role of the Advisory Board becomes increasingly vital in shaping the initiatives of the Center. This leadership is essential to ensuring that the Center remains at the forefront of defending independent journalism and supporting the critical work of reporters who operate under dangerous conditions. The Press Freedom Center is committed to assisting journalists through various means, including emergency assistance programs, legal and immigration support, and advocacy efforts, thereby standing in solidarity with journalists.
“We are entering a crucial moment in the global battle for press freedom,” stated William McCarren, Director of the Press Freedom Center. “This Board comprises an exceptional mix of experience, passion, and dedication. Their backgrounds cover journalism, law, business, and government, enabling them to assist journalists in need and enhance our impact worldwide. We must strengthen our efforts in these uncertain times to ensure that those who risk everything for the truth are never overlooked.”
McCarren commended Jason Rezaian, the Director of Press Freedom Initiatives at The Washington Post, for taking on the role of Advisory Board Chair. “Jason’s firsthand experience as a journalist who was wrongfully detained in Iran provides him with unique insight into the dangers faced by journalists around the world. His leadership will guide our mission to offer urgent, on-the-ground assistance to at-risk journalists.”
The members of the 2025 Advisory Board collectively possess extensive experience across a diverse range of sectors. They include:
- Yamiche Alcindor, White House Correspondent, NBC News
- Mike Balsamo, President, National Press Club; U.S. Law Enforcement Editor, Associated Press
- Jeff Eller, Founder and President of The Eller Group and Former Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of Media Affairs
- Tiffany Harness, Foreign Policy Editor, The New York Times
- Kathy Kiely, Lee Hills Chair in Free Press Studies, Missouri School of Journalism
- Alsu Kurmasheva, Press Freedom Advocate, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty
- Fred Ryan, Chairman, Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation; Former Publisher, The Washington Post
- Jim Sciutto, Anchor and Chief National Security Analyst, CNN
- Caroline Scullin, Global Communications Strategist, Concordia
- Madhulika Sikka, VP and Executive Editor, Crown Books; Former Executive Producer of Audio, The Washington Post and Executive Editor, National Public Radio
- Erik Sunde, Attorney at Law, Houston, TX; Counsel and Advocate for Austin, Marc, and Debra Tice
- Edward Wong, Diplomatic Correspondent, The New York Times
- Jason Rezaian, Director, Press Freedom Initiatives, The Washington Post
- William McCarren, Director, Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club; Former President of the National Press Club
The Press Freedom Center, launched in November 2024, is a crucial resource for journalists facing immediate threats to their safety, freedom, and ability to report without hindrance. With initial funding from the National Press Club and the National Press Club Journalism Institute, the Center offers essential services, including emergency assistance, immigration and legal support, and global advocacy for press freedom.
“The work of the Press Freedom Center is more critical than ever,” stated Mike Balsamo, President of the National Press Club. “Journalists face unprecedented threats, and the Center’s initiatives to offer immediate support and long-term advocacy are essential to maintaining press freedom and independence. Our commitment to these journalists goes beyond just defending press freedom; it is about protecting democracy itself.”
The Press Freedom Center’s work is made possible through the generous support of foundations, corporations, and individuals who recognize the importance of an independent press in a free society.
Established in 1908, the National Press Club is the foremost professional organization for journalists around the globe. The organization boasts a membership of over 2,500 individuals, representing nearly every significant journalism entity. The Club, together with its Press Freedom Center, is a prominent advocate for matters concerning press freedom both within the United States and worldwide.
Source: National Press Club, Washington, DC
— The CitiTimes editor is a National Press Club member.
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