The Online News Association (ONA), one of the largest nonprofit membership organizations advancing journalism leadership and technology innovation, is pleased to announce the promotion of Meghan Murphy to Head of Programs. A valued member of the ONA team for nearly a decade, Meghan’s leadership, vision and deep commitment to the journalism community make her ideally suited to guide ONA’s learning portfolio into its next chapter.
In her role, Meghan is responsible for ONA’s year-round program strategy, in alignment with the new strategic plan. She is responsible for designing programs to make journalism more equitable, innovative, resilient and sustainable, leading strategy and operations for the programs through which ONA’s mission comes to life. This includes ONA’s annual conference, which Meghan is already actively shaping for ONA26, taking place March 30 – April 1, 2026 in Chicago.
Since joining ONA in early 2016, Meghan has been instrumental in strengthening community engagement. She led the ONA Local program in the U.S. and internationally until the global pandemic, building connections across the journalism landscape. Over the past two and a half years, she has driven the AI in Journalism Initiative, crafting the vision that secured funding support from Microsoft, Joyce Foundation and McGovern Foundation. In its first year alone, the AI Initiative reached more than 2,800 individuals representing 1,500 organizations. Building on that foundation, the second year deepened training and community support to empower newsroom changemakers leading AI adoption across the industry.
“Meghan’s decade of service to ONA has been marked by exceptional leadership, and we are excited for what’s next under her guidance,” said Niketa Patel, Executive Director/CEO of ONA. “She has a genuine passion for building community and is incredibly thoughtful in shaping learning opportunities that are responsive, inclusive and empowering. Her promotion reflects the organization’s confidence in her ability to amplify ONA’s impact throughout the journalism ecosystem.”
Meghan added, “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside passionate colleagues, deeply committed members and inspiring partners over the past decade. I’m excited to continue working with all of you as we chart the next phase of ONA’s programs and build new ways to connect, learn and lead in this pivotal moment.”