Established in 1974, the Texas Newspaper Foundation, a non-profit organization, exists to honor the past, protect the present and build the future of journalism in general and newspa pers in particular as a vibrant force in democratic society.
Articles of incorporation for the Foundation were drafted in 1974 and filed with the Texas Secretary of State. Then, at Texas Press Association’s 95th annual summer convention in Ar lington, the board of directors unanimously approved the establishment of the Texas Newspa per Foundation Inc.
TPA President Tom Steely, publisher of the Lamar County Echo, Paris, appointed a board of trustees for the Foundation and Lyndell Williams, then the TPA’s Executive Director, was named registered agent.
Since then, the Foundation has championed the cause of newspapers, with a special emphasis on continuing education for newspaper professionals. It has established partnerships with col leges and universities, bringing nationally recognized experts in various aspects of journalism and newspaper management for seminars and workshops for staff members of Texas newspapers.
The Foundation is governed by a nine-member board of trustees. Three members are elected annually to serve three-year terms.
Presidents of the Texas Newspaper Foundation have included:
- Don Coppedge, Waxahachie Daily Light, 1974-79
- Tom Steely, Lamar County Echo, 1979-1986
- Bill Dozier, Kerrville Daily Times, 1986-91
- Roy Eaton, Wise County Messenger, 1991-2003
- Sally Richards, Aransas Pass Progress, 2003-04
- Jerry Tidwell, Hood County News, 2004-07
- Larry Jackson, Wharton Journal-Spectator and Fayette County Record, 2007-13
The original purpose of the Foundation is intact. Today the Foundation is thriving as it con tinues to address journalism training needs of Texas community newspapers.
Texas Newspaper Foundation
Micheal Hodges, registered agent
718 West Fifth Street
Austin, TX 78701
mhodges@texaspress.com