Serving as the ONA Board President as the organization celebrates its 25th anniversary is a special privilege, particularly with the excitement building as we approach our annual conference. Reflecting both on the growth of ONA over the past year and how we’ve been there for the journalism industry, I am filled with pride for what we have accomplished. Seeing the evolution of the organization and how it has and continues to elevate digital journalism and journalists is an incredible mission and one I am extremely proud to support.
Today, our CEO and Executive Director LaSharah Bunting announced that she will be stepping down from her position next month to return to her roots in newsrooms in a new position at The 19th, a nonprofit outlet reporting on gender, politics and policy.
While this is sad news for ONA, it also offers us a moment to celebrate her leadership and dedication to the organization. During her time with us, LaSharah has led ONA with commitment and vision. Her contributions have made ONA stronger and have also propelled us toward a future filled with potential and promise. Journalism continues to evolve and ONA continues to move forward with the industry. I’m very pleased that in the wake of LaSharah’s time with us, ONA’s role furthering innovation and evolving news practices is on solid ground.
Transitions are opportunities for renewal and innovation, and what is ONA if not a community built and shaped by people who thrive in moments of change, as our first 25 years has repeatedly shown us. Our organization is strong because our community is strong — you are strong! The ONA staff has spent a lot of the last year listening to you and working on what you want to see from this organization. What we heard over and over is how much you want to give back to ONA, to this community. It is an incredible testament to what our community has built together with ONA.
As Board President, I want to assure you that our commitment to ONA’s mission and community is as strong as ever. I also want to reflect back the strong commitment our community has shared with us. Together with ONA’s amazing staff and board, supported by our funders and partners, I have every confidence that ONA will only continue to grow and thrive for years to come.
After the ONA24 conference in Atlanta, we will post a job description that outlines what we’re seeking in ONA’s next CEO. We will be looking for someone who centers ONA’s mission and values in their leadership and who can continue building on the strategic work that LaSharah has led along with our board of directors.
Thank you, LaSharah, for your invaluable work at ONA. We wish you all the best, will continue to cheer you on and support you in this new role.
We can’t wait to see all of you in Atlanta so soon.
Charo Henríquez
ONA Board President
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Learn more about what ONA achieved during LaSharah S. Bunting’s tenure