The country’s third-largest newspaper company, McClatchy, recently cut jobs, titles and employee salaries. In the end, the company plans to eliminate 1,600 jobs. In Syracuse, a television station cut news altogether and fired 40.

Media diversity may be the last thing on the to-do list for executives these days, but not for me.

To survive this new reality, NABJ needs a radical transformation, and I am ready to lead it. I have a vision for retooling and re-energizing this great organization. 21st Century technology has changed the way our industry delivers news, dramatically reducing the voices of black journalists. Meeting these unprecedented challenges requires a proven leader with vision, knowledge, experience AND commitment. I have THOSE attributes.

"I sense in your approach the perception that the roiling of the news industry signals an end, perhaps, but also a new beginning. NABJ must steel itself to seize the time. Reviewing your record - and your eagerness to serve - it strikes me, Ms. Times, that you are that leader well suited to move us forward." Les Payne, NABJ Founder and Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist.

As a chapter president, I have tackled challenges, and expanded programs and dollars. As the chair of NABJ’s Media Institute, I’ve worked with members and staff to double training from coast to coast. And as your Vice President-Broadcast, I’ve been a tireless advocate meeting with television network executives and holding newspaper executives accountable before they cut jobs that affect black journalists.

Let’s continue our work together as we reinvigorate NABJ during these turbulent times.

I have the fortitude and business experience to only say "yes" to programs and spending that benefit you.  We will create an incubator to nurture entrepreneurs and support members’ ideas. This will lead to new jobs and programs and help keep NABJ in the black.

Elect me as your next NABJ president, and I will continue the progress that I’ve made as your Media Institute Chairwoman and as one of your vice presidents. I will immediately roll out priorities because over the last two years I've been in the trenches fighting for NABJ, and I understand the urgency of the moment.  

A vote for Kathy Times is a vote for YOU.