Application Deadline: December 31
With the opportunity to usher in a revitalized era for Kentucky journalism, Kentucky Press Association (KPA) President Dennis Brown and the KPA Executive Committee announced today that the search is officially underway for the association’s next Executive Director.
This new leader will have the opportunity to drive innovation and strengthen the bond between KPA members and their communities.
The Executive Director position description, outlining responsibilities and candidate qualifications, is available on the KPA website and is included with this announcement. Qualified applicants with energy, vision, and a commitment to strengthening Kentucky journalism are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through December 31, with the goal of naming a successor in early 2026.
Honoring David Thompson’s Extraordinary 42 Years of Service
The launch of the search follows the planned retirement of longtime Executive Director David T. Thompson, who has served the association with distinction since 1983. Thompson is the longest-serving executive director of a state newspaper association in North America and has been widely recognized for transforming KPA into one of the nation’s leading press organizations.
“David Thompson has served KPA and Kentucky journalism with a level of dedication few in our industry will ever match,” said KPA President Dennis Brown. “For 42 years, he has been the steady hand guiding our association with integrity, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to open government and a free press. David has been a mentor to me and to countless journalists across the Commonwealth. His leadership, advocacy, and institutional knowledge are irreplaceable. The next Executive Director will have big shoes to fill.”
During his more than four decades at KPA, Thompson expanded member services, strengthened the association’s legislative presence in Frankfort, established legal-advocacy resources, built statewide training and internship programs, and shepherded major anniversaries of the association. He is a Kentucky Journalism Hall of Fame inductee (2006) and recipient of the Al Smith Award for Public Service through Community Journalism (2019). Before joining KPA, Thompson served as publisher and editor of the Georgetown News and Times and previously worked as a sportswriter for the Lexington Herald
“On behalf of the Executive Committee, we are deeply grateful for David’s lifelong service to KPA members and the communities they serve,” Brown said. “We wish him every success and happiness in his well-earned retirement.”
Application Information
KPA seeks an Executive Director who will provide strong strategic leadership, oversee advocacy and legislative engagement, manage operations and staff, expand revenue opportunities, and strengthen statewide programs including the annual convention, digital initiatives, and association programs.
The new Executive Director will help guide and strengthen the association’s diverse and growing membership.
A full position summary and qualification requirements are available in the attached description.
Applicants should submit a cover letter and résumé to: executive.committee@kentuckypressassociation.com
Deadline for submissions is December 31, 2025
About the Kentucky Press Association
Founded in 1869, the Kentucky Press Association is one of the nation’s oldest statewide press organizations, representing newspapers, digital publishers, student media, and news professionals across the Commonwealth. KPA advocates for open government, supports newsroom excellence, and provides legal, legislative, and professional resources to strengthen Kentucky journalism.
-30-
