The Online News Association (ONA) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Hanaa Rifaey to Deputy Director. Hanaa has been a member of the ONA team for nearly 10 years, starting as a consultant and joining the executive team as Head of Strategic Partnerships in 2023. She also served as Interim CEO/Executive Director in 2024-25, leading ONA through a key period of transition with clarity and stability, ensuring the organization remained grounded in its mission while preparing for its next phase of growth.
In her decade of service to ONA, Hanaa has strengthened ONA’s position as a dynamic hub for journalism and technology leaders to connect, learn and build what’s next. She has cultivated partnerships with newsrooms, funders, technology organizations and industry stakeholders; expanded opportunities for innovation through curated programming; and supported emerging ventures through coaching and mentorship with the Start-Up Alley, part of the ONA Midway’s journalism futures lab. Internally, Hanaa serves as a force multiplier for the ONA team, building organizational capacity through creative ingenuity and problem-solving.
Hanaa’s new title recognizes the critical role she plays in bringing ONA’s mission and strategic vision to life. She helps lead operations for the organization’s programs, events and partnerships, ensuring ONA is positioned to deliver high-impact work that supports journalism professionals at every stage of their careers. Working closely with Executive Director/CEO Niketa Patel, Hanaa helps align organizational strategy, strengthen internal systems and expand the relationships that anchor ONA’s long-term resilience.
“Hanaa brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, strategic partnerships, fundraising, creative direction and more. I couldn’t be more excited to have her leading alongside me, as our new Deputy Director,” said Niketa.
“I love the work we do and the community we serve, and I’m energized by the opportunity to continue helping ONA thrive through this next chapter,” said Hanaa. “With our strategic plan unveiled and so many meaningful initiatives underway, I’m looking forward to deepening the systems, partnerships and internal support that help our community learn, adapt and lead with confidence. Let’s go!”