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Wendy Bretz
Adams MultiMedia Divisional Digital Director [email protected]t Wendy Bretz is a dedicated marketing professional with extensive experience in both print and digital marketing. She was recently promoted to Divisional Digital Director for Adams Publishing Group’s Eastern Division. She is based in Alcoa, Tennessee. In her role, Wendy excels in project management and customer service, demonstrating a strong ability to create and drive marketing initiatives. Her expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of marketing strategies, reflecting her commitment to delivering impactful results. Prior to her current position, Wendy held the role of Regional Digital Director as well as Multimedia Account Executive at Adams Publishing Group LLC, where she honed her skills in multimedia marketing and client relations. Wendy's professional journey is marked by a consistent dedication to excellence and a passion for leveraging marketing strategies to achieve business objectives. 
Elizabeth Engelhardt
Seguin Gazette Publisher [email protected] Elizabeth Engelhardt is the publisher of the Seguin Gazette (Southern Newspapers Inc.), a role she has held since March 2018. She leads the Gazette with a commitment to delivering trusted, community-focused journalism to the people of Seguin and Guadalupe County. Elizabeth began her newspaper career in 2013 with Southern Newspapers Inc. as an Advertising Account Manager at the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. In 2016, she joined the Seguin Gazette as Advertising Director and was promoted to publisher just 18 months later—a testament to her leadership and dedication. In addition to her work in journalism, Elizabeth is a devoted community advocate. She currently serves as Chair of the Board for the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce and is a past president of the Seguin Rotary Club. She also holds board positions with the Seguin Public Library, the Guadalupe-Seguin Heritage Museum, and the Seguin Area Youth Leadership Academy, and she actively serves on numerous non-profit fundraising committees. Her leadership has been recognized with several honors, including being named a Rising Star of Guadalupe County and receiving the Professional Achievement Award from the Guadalupe County Young Professionals in 2022. Originally from the Dallas–Fort Worth area, Elizabeth is a proud 2003 graduate of Frisco High School. She attended Blinn College in Bryan, TX, where she met her husband, Brian. Since 2007, she has called New Braunfels home, where she lives with Brian and their two sons, Aiden (17) and Mason (14). Elizabeth is passionate about journalism, civic engagement, and forging strong local connections through storytelling and service. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, live music, spending time with friends and family, and cheering on the Fightin’ Texas Aggies. |
Robert Ireland
Beloit Daily News Director of Business Dev & GM of The Beloit Daily News [email protected] Robert Ireland is a Southern Wisconsin media executive and marketing strategist with a background in journalism and local advertising. He began his career as a reporter and editor, gaining experience in community journalism before transitioning into advertising leadership roles. Over the years, Robert has worked across newsrooms and sales teams, combining editorial insight with marketing expertise to help local businesses and organizations reach their audiences more effectively. Robert currently serves as General Manager for The Beloit Daily News, which is part of Adams Publishing Group’s Southern Wisconsin division. He also works directly with clients to develop strategic marketing campaigns that blend traditional media with targeted digital solutions. Prior to joining APG, Robert served as the Sales Director for the Kenosha News and the General Manager of the Lake Geneva Regional News. He earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh and brings more than a decade of experience in community-focused media. 
Mundy Price
Index-Journal President/Publisher [email protected] Mundy Price is a third-generation newspaper owner/publisher at the Index-Journal in Greenwood, South Carolina. The Index-Journal is one of only three family-owned dailies in South Carolina. The paper’s original owner was Harry L. Watson, who was also editor and publisher for more than 50 years. The business began operations in a building near Greenwood’s Main Street on the second floor above a movie theater. The printing press was on a dirt floor on the first level. When Watson died, his daughters inherited the paper, where they worked as writers. Longtime Greenwood residents especially remember Margaret, who often smoked a pipe while she typed her stories for the newspaper. In 1957, the Watson sisters wanted to sell the business, but insisted it be sold to Greenwood residents. The paper was bought by three men who had been employed by the newspaper for years: R. Frank Mundy, business manager and maternal grandfather of current publisher, Mundy Price; William W. Wilson, advertising director; and J. Ed Chaffin, editor. The new owners had a business arrangement which stated that after the death of one, the survivors had the option of buying the shares of the deceased. Wilson died first, then Chaffin, and Frank Mundy became the sole owner and publisher in 1977 until his death in 1982. Mundy’s widow, Eleanor Metts Mundy, succeeded him as publisher, and their only child, Judith (Judi) Mundy Burns, was named president. After Mrs. Mundy’s death in 1998, Judi became president and publisher, positions she held until her death in August 2019 upon which time Mundy Price became president and publisher. Prior to leading the newspaper, since starting at the family business in 2001, she has worked in various capacities, including a graphic designer, the Director of Newspaper Relations, publisher of a sister weekly paper in a neighboring town, as well as publisher and designer of several lifestyle magazines produced by the Index-Journal. Most recently, in April 2025, Price has also taken on the role of executive editor of the paper’s 7-person newsroom. One of Price’s two sisters, St.Claire Donaghy, has been a reporter for the Index-Journal for nearly 30 years. Price is a third-generation graduate of the University of South Carolina, where she earned a B.A. in Journalism with an emphasis in public relations and advertising and a cognate in business. While at Carolina, she was a member of the varsity equestrian team. She and her husband, Kenny, have been married for 24 years and have three sons, Charles (21), Mac (18), and Benjamin (15). She’s an avid South Carolina Gamecocks fan and enjoys attending football and baseball games with her family. She also enjoys cooking, traveling, and going to concerts and music festivals. 
Justin Smith
The News Reporter Publisher & Owner [email protected] Justin Smith is publisher and editor of The News Reporter, an independent community newspaper in Whiteville, N.C. A digital-first media company, The News Reporter publishes a weekly newspaper, quarterly magazines, and a variety of special sections. Justin and his wife, Rachel, who serves as director of operations, purchased the newspaper from its third-generation owners in 2021. In recent years, The News Reporter has launched an ad-supported email newsletter, a text messaging platform, and a sponsored video and podcast interview series. Justin holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in public administration from UNC Wilmington. He is also a graduate of Leadership North Carolina. He serves on the board of directors of the North Carolina Press Association and is a member of the Whiteville Rotary Club. The Smiths live in Whiteville with their two children. 
Jared Wright
The Denver Gazette General Manager [email protected] Jared Wright serves as general manager of Colorado Politics, a nonpartisan Clarity Media Group publication serving as Colorado's premier publication reporting on the legislature, executive and judicial branches of government, lobbyists, state parties, and local governments around the state. Jared received his B.A. in political science from Colorado Mesa University in 2006, graduating summa cum laude. While still attending college, he worked full-time as a legislative aid for U.S. Rep. Scott McInnis and was also elected student body president. After graduation he attended police academy and served as a patrol officer with the Fruita Police Department from 2007-2011, receiving special certifications as a crisis intervention officer and child interviewer. In 2012, he was elected to serve the people of Western Colorado's House District 54 as their state representative in the Colorado General Assembly. He served one term in office and served on the House Judiciary committee and as ranking member on the House Local Government committee. He successfully passed bipartisan legislation cracking down on child sex trafficking and other human trafficking plaguing the state. In 2015, Jared was chosen by the ownership of the 120-year-old publication The Colorado Statesman to serve as its publisher and president. In 2017, the publication was sold to Clarity Media Group and the publication's name was changed to Colorado Politics. Since then, Jared and his small staff have achieved exponential readership and revenue growth. Jared enjoys spending all his spare time with his two children, 13 and 4, and in the outdoors hiking and camping. |
Ryan Jerman
The Spokesman-Review Senior Multimedia Sales Executives [email protected] I took a roundabout course to joining this industry. While studying international relations in college, I had the opportunity to observe a wide range of legacy and startup media organizations operating around the world. Their mission of giving voice to marginalized groups and holding powerful institutions accountable was admirable and essential. In conversations with those involved, I developed a fascination with the persistent challenge of financing and sustaining this critical service. Over the course of my four years at The Spokesman-Review, I’ve held a variety of roles across the Circulation and Marketing departments. This has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the inner-workings of the company. I enjoy working with local businesses and organizations to get their brand and message in front of our audience. I’ve also helped push The Spokesman to explore and further monetize new mediums, including podcasts, newsletters, and our mobile app. I am grateful for this opportunity to learn from my peers at other newspapers around the country. 
Laura Martin Baseman
Santa Fe New Mexican HR Manager [email protected] I’m a proud member of a third-generation newspaper family who has had the privilege to work at both the New Mexican and its sister paper, the Taos News. I have also had two careers outside of the media industry. I have been a multi-faith hospital and hospice chaplain, as well as a small business owner in Santa Fe. I have returned to the newspaper industry because I believe the New Mexican fulfills an essential role in our state and its capital city. Just like when the New Mexican was founded 175 years ago, we continue to keep governments, the police, and educators accountable for their actions. Our magazines, some founded decades ago, support Santa Fe’s robust arts and cultural scenes. I’m proud that my family has been the New Mexican’s steward for 75 of those years. As the newly appointed HR Director, I'm focused on modernizing and systematizing our human resources operations to support the New Mexican's continued evolution as a multi-media company. My current project involves conducting a comprehensive audit and optimization of our HR systems to ensure we have robust, scalable processes that can support both our traditional operations and our expanding digital initiatives. By integrating new tech compassionately, I hope to build a strong foundation that will ensure we continue to serve New Mexico for another generation. 
Delilah Reyes
Seguin Gazette Advertising Directort [email protected] Delilah Reyes is the Advertising Director at the Seguin Gazette, where she leads a dynamic sales team focused on driving both print and digital advertising revenue. With over 20 years of experience in the newspaper industry, Delilah brings a results driven approach to sales strategy, team leadership, and client success. She began her career in graphic design, playing a key role in transitioning a newspaper from manual to digital layout, and quickly discovered a passion for sales. Over the years, she has held impactful roles at several Texas publications, including the Lockhart Post-Register, Hays Free Press, and San Marcos Daily Record, developing a deep understanding of both traditional and digital media landscapes. Now leading digital initiatives that include SEM, SEO, OTT/CTV, geofencing, and more, Delilah is committed to helping local businesses grow through effective, data-driven marketing strategies. Her career reflects a strong belief in the value of community journalism and the importance of evolving with the industry to meet the needs of modern audiences and advertisers. 
Jonathan Vickery
The People-Sentinel Publisher/Ownerr [email protected] A native of Barnwell, S.C., Jonathan Vickery is the publisher and majority owner of The People-Sentinel/Sundial Media Group SC. After earning his mass media degree from Anderson University, he returned to his hometown in 2010 to work for the newspaper as a staff writer. He was promoted to managing editor in 2014. In July 2021, he purchased The People-Sentinel from Gannett Media, bringing the paper back to local ownership for the first time in over 30 years. Since that time, he’s worked to grow the team, content and newspaper to better serve the community. As a journalist, he enjoys meeting new people and learning new things about his community while covering stories – good and bad – that truly matter. As a small business owner, he enjoys investing in his community by providing jobs and a vital public service. He also enjoys giving back by sponsoring events, recreation league sports teams, and other initiatives that help the community. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, eating and cooking, photography, and going to movies, plays, and concerts. He is president of the Rotary Club of Barnwell County, serves as publicity chair on the board of Circle Theatre of Barnwell, and is an active member of Barnwell First Baptist Church. He also serves on the S.C. Press Association’s executive board as treasurer. |
Daicy Leyva
Wenatchee World Digital Sales Lead [email protected] Hi! I’m Daicy Leyva — born and raised in the beautiful Lake Chelan area. After graduating from Manson High School, I headed over the mountains to Seattle, where I earned my B.A. in Spanish Studies and B.B.A. in Marketing from Seattle Pacific University (go Falcons!). But as anyone from here knows, there’s truly no place like home, so I made my way back. Now, I’m proud to work as the Digital Sales Lead at The Wenatchee World, where I help local businesses tell their stories through smart, effective advertising strategies. With a strong background in marketing, fluency in Spanish, and deep roots in the region, I bring both strategic insight and cultural connection to everything I do. Whether it’s digital transformation, exploring new revenue opportunities, or adapting to the evolving needs of our audience — I’m all in. I’m incredibly excited to be attending the meeting in New Orleans. This event is an amazing opportunity to connect with peers from across the country, sharpen leadership skills, and help shape the future of local journalism. It’s a pivotal time in our industry, and I’m honored to be part of the next generation stepping up to lead. 
Rachel Pence Smith
The News Reporter Director of Operations [email protected] Rachel Smith is director of operations for The News Reporter, a digital-first community media company based in rural southeastern North Carolina. She and her husband, Justin, co-own the business, which publishes a weekly newspaper, quarterly magazines, a weekday email newsletter, and a variety of print and digital products. Before beginning her media career, Rachel spent 16 years as a public school teacher and administrator, including five years as an elementary school principal. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Appalachian State University, a master’s degree in instructional technology from NC State University, and a doctoral degree in educational leadership from East Carolina University. Rachel is a 2023 graduate of Leadership North Carolina and completed the inaugural Emerging Leadership Program at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY in 2024. She serves as a Girl Scout leader, PTA president, Girls on the Run coach, and a board member of the Friends of the Museum for the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Whiteville. Rachel and Justin enjoy traveling with their two children. 
Katelyn Mary Skaggs
Leader Publications Digital Marketing Manager [email protected] Hello, I’m Katelyn Mary Skaggs, the digital marketing manager and part-owner of my hometown newspaper, Leader Publications. The Leader is a group of three weekly and one bi-weekly newspapers with a combined circulation of 50,000. The newspapers are free, direct-mail and focus on local news and community connections. While attending Southeast Missouri State University, I interned at the Leader, which led to a full-time reporting role after graduation. I spent several years covering local government, public health, and community news throughout Jefferson County, Missouri. In 2020, I was honored to be named Missouri’s Young Outstanding Journalist by the Missouri Press Association. In 2022, I moved to the business side of the paper to lead our digital operations, community events and fundraising. I also write a monthly column for Publishers' Auxiliary, where I share tips from the digital side of a local newsroom. My significant other, Alex, and I share a home with our four-year-old Australian Shepherd, Teddy. 
Jessica Williams
The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate Metro Editor [email protected] Jessica Williams is the metro editor for The Times-Picayune, overseeing a desk that includes nearly two dozen reporters covering city and suburban politics, criminal justice, business, health, culture and other topics. Before serving as metro editor, she served as state politics editor for The Times-Picayune and The Advocate, and before that, as deputy investigations editor for those organizations. Jessica is a native of New Orleans and a graduate of Loyola University. 
Taylor Ysteboe
The Post and Courier Director of Audience [email protected] Taylor Ysteboe is the Director of Audience at The Post and Courier in Charleston, South Carolina. She joined The Post and Courier in 2019 as an audience engagement producer, and she now leads digital growth efforts for all of the teams based in the Charleston newsroom. Ysteboe manages the audience team, which is made up of seven producers and editors across the state. This team is responsible for curating the homepage and app, managing social media accounts, shooting and editing social videos, optimizing stories for SEO, writing and editing newsletters, workshopping headlines, and more. She earned her bachelor’s degrees in journalism and English from the University of Missouri in 2017. |