BY RICK NAGEL The future of local journalism isn’t something to d**k around with. There’s a vulgar lead and a dangling participle to start your day. But maybe it will grab your attention long enough for me to get you to the nut graph. The Northern Illinois News Association (that’s right, it’s “News” Association and not… Continue reading Top 3 Reasons NINA’s New Vision Statement Actually Means Something
The Northern Illinois Newspaper Association has changed its name to fit the times. In an announcement made Thursday (Oct. 27, 2022) at NINA’s 60th anniversary event at Altgeld Hall on the Northern Illinois University campus, NINA Board President Patricia Szpekowski said the organization is now the “Northern Illinois News Association.” “For the third time in… Continue reading NINA Changes Its Name
For six decades, Northern Illinois University and the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association have celebrated journalism and journalism education in a region that extends from Kankakee to Rockford, from Moline to Chicago and all parts in between. On Thursday, Oct. 27, you'll have the chance to join that celebration in a stylish, meaningful and important tribute… Continue reading NINA Celebrates 60 Years of Excellence in Journalism
by Pat Szpekowski, NINA president Victoria Feng photo credit/Alicia Johnson, Alicia's Photography We are pleased to announce that Victoria Feng of Buffalo Grove, a recent graduate of Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Vernon Hills, has been awarded this year’s $1,000 NINA John Etheredge High School Scholarship. The scholarship is now named in honor of… Continue reading Feng receives NINA high school scholarship
by Pat Szpekowski, APR - NINA President NINA is proud of its legacy and affiliation with Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. The roots of our organization were formed here and NINA has grown and prospered over the years. As we celebrate NINA’s 60th in 2022, you might have noticed our tagline for this anniversary year… Continue reading NIU Student Journalist joins NINA Board
by Dan Campana Remember, the light at the end of the tunnel may be you. That line – a kicker to close out the album version of Aerosmith’s 1993 hit “Amazing” – came to mind as the NINA Virtual Awards Celebration wrapped up on Oct. 28. It’s an optimistic, introspective sentence which reminds us all… Continue reading Young journalists shine during NINA panel
By Pat Szpekowski, NINA first vice president When driving to a destination, I usually catch a casual glance of signs when entering a new community. Cities and Villages proudly post accomplishments. You've seen them, too. Tree City USA. Hebron, Home of 1952 State Basketball Champions. Carpentersville-Bradie Tennell U.S. Olympic Champion. Algonquin-Jacobs High School alumnus Evan… Continue reading A sign of champions
Dan Campana by Dan Campana, NINA President Any way you talk about the last 19 months – personally and professionally – the word “challenge” likely pops up at some point.At the same time, words such as adapt, overcome and persevere are also fitting when considering how in the world we’ve collectively endured so much uncertainty… Continue reading Awards season brings NINA community together
by Pat SzpekowskiNINA 1st Vice President Community journalism is a win-win for everyone. During a recent board meeting I attended at the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce in Carpentersville, a number of matters were on the agenda for review. Past and upcoming local events always bring on a lively discussion. I happened that day… Continue reading Power of the local press
The Northern Illinois Newspaper Association will award a $1,000 scholarship this spring to the high school senior picked by the association as the 2020 Northern Illinois High School Journalist of the Year. The scholarship winner will receive a commemorative plaque and recognition that will stand out on their college applications and resume. NINA President Margarita… Continue reading NINA Opens Competition For 2020 High School Journalist of The Year
Northern Illinois News Association 