Mark Schoeff Jr. Inaugurated as 119th President of the National Press Club

On a snowy February evening in Washington, D.C., the National Press Club welcomed its 119th president: Mark Schoeff Jr., a seasoned journalist whose career has spanned politics, think tanks, and financial services reporting.

A Journalist’s Journey

Schoeff currently covers legislation and regulations affecting financial services at CQ Roll Call, a role he took on in 2024 after more than a decade at InvestmentNews, where his award-winning D.C. Insider column became a must-read. His career path has been anything but linear: from serving as press secretary to Sen. Richard Lugar of Indiana to directing external relations at the Center for Strategic and International Studies to contributing to Howey Politics Indiana for over two decades.

His roots in journalism stretch back to Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he wrote sports stories for the News-Sentinel while still in school. Later, he sharpened his editorial skills as managing editor of a Manhattan community newspaper and as a student reporter at The Purdue Exponent.

A Vision for Press Freedom

In his inaugural remarks, Schoeff underscored the urgency of defending press freedom at a time when journalists face daily attacks on their credibility.

“With press freedom and the profession under attack on an almost daily basis here at home and abroad, the Club is needed more than ever,” Schoeff said.

He announced a new initiative: offering three months of complimentary membership to any D.C. reporter who has recently lost their job. The gesture comes just days after nearly 400 journalists were laid off from The Washington Post.

“We hope to provide a welcoming space where displaced journalists can access resources, build connections, and find strength in a community that understands the value of their work,” Schoeff explained.

Tradition Meets Personal Symbolism

True to Club tradition, Schoeff personalized his swearing-in ceremony by placing his hand on a Purdue basketball—a nod to his alma mater and lifelong love of the game. He also used the moment to highlight concerns about Purdue’s reduced support for its student newspaper, while praising the resilience of student journalists in attendance.

Praise from Colleagues and Mentors

The evening was filled with tributes from peers and mentors:

Christina Nelson, his former colleague at InvestmentNews, described his “sheer enthusiasm” and “palpable joy” for journalism.
Former NPC President Sylvia Smith called him “the right person to lead the National Press Club in this dicey time.”
Jason Dick, his editor at CQ Roll Call, highlighted Schoeff’s humor and closed with: “Good luck, Mark, make us proud.”
Sam Feist, CEO of C-SPAN, praised both Schoeff and the Club for their devotion to informing the public.

Looking Ahead

Schoeff’s leadership promises continuity and renewal. Known for his dedication to The Wire, the Club’s member news digest, he has already demonstrated a commitment to keeping journalists connected and informed.

As the National Press Club enters its next chapter under Schoeff’s guidance, one thing is clear: his presidency will be defined by a steadfast defense of press freedom and a deep respect for the profession he has devoted his life to.

Inside the National Press Club: Where the World’s Leaders Speak

Founded in 1908, the National Press Club (NPC) in downtown Washington, D.C., has long been regarded as a cornerstone of American journalism. What began as a gathering place for reporters and communicators has grown into an internationally recognized center for media briefings, news conferences, and professional exchange.

Today, with more than 2,500 members, the Club continues to champion press freedom and uphold the values of a free and independent media both in the United States and across the world.

Through its storied history, the Club has welcomed some of the most influential voices of our time. Among them are Indian Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Dr. Manmohan Singh, each of whom addressed members from the historic podium in downtown Washington.

From India to Washington: A Voice at the National Press Club

The CitiTimes Editorial Creator is a member of this distinguished institution and currently serves as the only representative from India.