Running for NAHJ’s Academic At-Large Officer
I am a product of NAHJ.
Since I first attended the Student Campus when I was in community college to planning the curriculum for this year’s conference in Miami. I have run the Student Online Project for more than five years, help organize what was then called the “New Media Tracks” and served on the board for a few years.
And after much thought, I have decided to throw my name into the race to be the Academic At-Large officer serving on the national board.
tl;dr version:
I need your help. If you are an NAHJ member in good standing, please email this nomination statement to elections@nahj.org and r.hernandez@usc.edu. Thank you!
I [Nominating Member Name], an employee of [The Company the Nominating Member Works for and Their Position] support the candidacy of Robert Hernandez for Academic At-Large Officer in the election of the NAHJ Board of Directors.
This statement counts as my virtual signature and I have included my full contact information below.
Date:
Phone:
Email:
The long version:
First, I have to admit I normally preach about new leadership to head up organizations like ours because we need to evolve and change to reflect the world we work and live in. We need modern leaders for these modern times. Not the same old talking points and passive organizations from years past. Why look back when we need to move forward?
Because of that thinking, I was reluctant to serve on the board again. Why should I return when there should be new faces that can lead?
So much has changed in my career since I served. In all honesty, I feel like I was a kid when I was first on the board, trying to normalize the digital’s role in journalism just over 10 years ago. That sounds crazy, but that was the struggle for journalists working online.
Now, after two decades in this industry, I think we need bold leadership that delivers on empowering our members. We can’t complain about the lack of diversity. A hashtag is not enough. We have to empower ourselves, because we are the ones who will fight for us and for inclusion.
I think the training I have organized for our conference is in line with the changes and the direction we need to go in.
I think I do bring a perspective that NAHJ needs.
And, I’ll be honest, if the bylaws allowed it…. I’d be running for president of NAHJ this year.
Our bylaws are out of date. You don’t get corrupted by taking a different type of media job. Once a journalist, always a journalist. Once a passionate member of NAHJ, always a member of NAHJ.
People who know me know that I am a reluctant academic. I am more a hackademic. But if that is the only spot I can run for to serve on the board, then so be it.
I stand with NAHJ.
Just as NAHJ has stood with me. Throughout my entire career adult life.
I hope you vote (our turnout rate is horrible!)… and you consider voting for me to continue to serve NAHJ.
Gracias,
Robert