FRANKFORT — The Kentucky Press Association has announced the appointment of Tim Timmons as its new Executive Director. Timmons will officially begin his duties on March 15.
He succeeds David Thompson, who retired after 42 years of distinguished service to Kentucky’s newspaper industry.
Timmons brings more than four decades of experience in publishing, media management, and press association leadership, with extensive expertise in executive leadership, financial management, legislative advocacy, and multi-publication operations. His career reflects a deep commitment to the sustainability, growth, and future of local journalism.
He currently serves as Regional Publisher for Texas Local Media, overseeing seven newspapers across four counties. He also serves as Chief Executive Officer of Sagamore News Media, a position he has held since 2004.
Previously, Timmons was General Manager of the South Bend Tribune and held various editorial and administrative leadership roles with Freedom Communications.
Throughout his career, Timmons has remained deeply engaged in press association leadership, serving multiple terms on the Hoosier State Press Association Board, including vice president and president. He has organized and led successful grassroots advocacy efforts and has played key roles in governance and executive leadership development.
He is also recognized for his entrepreneurial accomplishments, having founded and grown a profitable newspaper company, launched multiple publications through start-up and acquisition, and developed industry-focused newsletters. He is a strong advocate for blending print sustainability with digital innovation.
Timmons earned his education at Bethany College and Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis.
Timmons said he is honored by the opportunity to lead the Association and is focused on helping members navigate ongoing industry change.
“This is both humbling and exciting. To follow a giant in Kentucky newspapers like David Thompson is humbling, but to have the opportunity to work with the great people and KPA members in the Commonwealth is tremendously exciting,” Timmons said.
He emphasized the important role state press associations play in guiding the industry.
“State press associations are in the perfect position to help our industry find better answers going forward,” Timmons said. “We can highlight best practices, be a platform for ideas and innovation, all while respecting the only industry protected in the First Amendment.”
Timmons said he believes newspapers remain vital in today’s information-driven world.
“We are an information industry at a time in human history when information has never been more valuable,” he said. “Newspapers are not dead. We have challenges, but we also have tremendous opportunity if we work together.”
He added that he is eager to begin working with Kentucky’s print and online media leaders.
“I can’t begin to describe how honored I am that the executive committee and the board would have the confidence to bring me to KPA,” Timmons said. “I am anxious to meet everyone and get going.”
2025 KPA President Dennis Brown said the selection followed a careful and comprehensive search.
“With the retirement of David Thompson came one of the most important responsibilities the executive committee was charged to undertake: the search for our next Executive Director,” Brown said.
Brown noted the process was conducted with care and intention.
“This process has been thoughtful and deliberate,” he said. “We received many strong and qualified applications, narrowed that field carefully, and were intentional about selecting the right leader for KPA’s future.”
He also praised the Executive Committee’s efforts.
“I want to sincerely thank the Executive Committee for the extraordinary amount of time, additional meetings, and careful judgment they have devoted to this process,” Brown said.
Brown emphasized the Association’s long-term priorities.
“Our focus has been on making sure KPA remains strong and stable for the next generation of journalists,” he said. “That means taking our time, asking hard questions, and doing what’s right for our members.”
2026 KPA President Mike Scogin said Timmons’ experience and vision make him an ideal choice for the Association’s next chapter.
“Tim Timmons brings exactly the kind of leadership, experience, and perspective that KPA needs at this moment in our industry,” Scogin said.
Scogin highlighted Timmons’ broad understanding of newspaper and online media operations.
“He understands our industry from the newsroom to the boardroom, from small-town communities to state-level advocacy,” Scogin said. “That depth of knowledge is invaluable.”
He also pointed to Timmons’ advocacy and business background.
“Tim has built companies, led organizations, and defended public notices and open government,” Scogin said. “He knows both the challenges and the opportunities before us.”
Scogin said the Association looks forward to working with its new director.
“We are excited to welcome him to Kentucky and look forward to working closely with him as we continue strengthening our Association and supporting our members,” he said.
Strategic Vision
Timmons’ leadership emphasizes:
- The continuing value of newspapers as trusted information providers;
- A balanced approach to print and digital platforms;
- Stronger professional development for newsroom and business staff;
- Enhanced member services and best-practice sharing;
- Changing the narrative around journalism’s future;
- Creating new member benefits and revenue opportunities.
He has proposed innovative initiatives designed to reinforce the value of KPA membership and strengthen long-term sustainability.
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