The Council was founded in 1991 as the Council of Presidents of National Journalism Organizations to encourage the exchange of information and ideas among national news and editorial associations. Currently 61 organizations belong to the Council; others with a similar focus are welcome to join.
In 2003, the Council adopted its current name and this mission statement:
The Council of National Journalism Organizations is a coalition of associations that works to foster communication and cooperation among members. It focuses on such shared concerns as administrative efficiency of member organizations, professional development and standards, diversity in staffing and coverage, the free flow of news and information, and technological and professional innovations.
Executive directors often represent member associations on the Council. Some groups elect to send board presidents or another officer.
The Council usually meets twice annually.
The Council co-sponsors www.journalismtraining.org, a Web site of journalism training programs, which launched in 2003 and is managed by the Society of Professional Journalists.
CNJO Executives 2014
Chair: Debra L. Mason, Religion Newswriters Association (e-mail)
Executive Committee:
Len Bruzzese, Association of Health Care Journalists
Ted Gest, Criminal Justice Journalists
Mark Horvit, Investigative Reporters and Editors
Beth Parke, Society of Environmental Journalists
Lisa Walker, Education Writers Association
