
You're Invited!
The California Journalism Symposium
The California Press Foundation proudly invites you to its 148th Annual Symposium, a gathering of seasoned and early-career journalists, educators, and newsroom leaders who are shaping the future of journalism. This year, we’ll focus on the momentous changes artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are driving.
The event will be held in person from 9 a.m- 5 p.m on Thursday, Dec. 4 at the Monterey Plaza Hotel, in Monterey Bay, California.
You can book discounted accommodations through November 3, 2025.
Whether you're a seasoned professional, an educator guiding the next generation or a student eager to make your mark — you won't want to miss this day of collaborative conversation.
Program
*Check back for updates on additional speakers and sessions. Programming details are subject to change.*
9:15 a.m. — Welcome
Greetings from Cal Press Foundation Chair, Eric Johnston and Executive Director, Danielle McKinney.
Keynote
Morning Sessions
10:30 a.m. — Panel: AI
- Moderator: Eric Johnston, Chair, California Press Foundation
Focused discussion with guests:
- Kat Rowlands — Owner and Publisher, Bay City News
- Tim Olson — Head of Partnerships, KQED
- Additional panelists to come
11:25 a.m. — Panel: Seeing Through the Noise: Media Literacy in the Era of Artificial Intelligence
- Moderator: Jim Boren, Director, Institute for Media & Public Trust at Fresno State
Focused discussion with guests:
- Susan Meister, Founder, Monterey Media Literacy Coalition
- Julia Satterthwaite, President, Journalism Education Association of Northern California & 2025 National High School Journalism Teacher of the Year
- Additional panelists to come
12:15-1:00 p.m. — Lunch Break
Afternoon Sessions
1:10 p.m — JOUR•Ed Collaborative
Update on our education initiative, including 2025 survey results and more.
- Featured speaker:
- Linda Bowen, Journalism Educator, California State University, Northridge
2:20 p.m. — Session: Investing in Scholastic Journalism
Featuring representatives from:
- Bruce Koon, Program Coordinator, Contra Costa Youth Journalism
- Sharon Noguchi, Executive Director, MOSAIC Journalism
- Additional speakers to come
3:30 p.m. —Panel: Collaboration & Community News
- Moderator: Priscilla Enriquez, President/CEO, James B. McClatchy Foundation
Focused discussion with guests:
- Misty Avila, Vice President/CSO, James B. McClatchy Foundation
- Joe Kieta, Executive Editor, Central Valley Journalism Collaborative
- Additional panelists to come
Post-Event Reception
Join us for cocktails and conversation until 6:00 p.m.
Secure your tickets!
Tickets include program, deluxe lunch buffet and Thursday evening reception. Sponsored student tickets are available. If cost is a barrier, please contact Danielle McKinney to inquire.
General Admission Ticket
$175.00
General Admission Ticket to 2025 Symposium. Includes access to the full day of programming, refreshments, lunch and post-event reception.QuantityComing soonEducator Ticket
$85.00
Educator Ticket to 2025 Symposium. Includes access to the full day of programming, refreshments, lunch and post-event reception.QuantityComing soonStudent Ticket
$50.00
Student Ticket to 2025 Symposium. Includes access to the full day of programming, refreshments, lunch and post-event reception.QuantityComing soonSponsorship Opportunities
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