SPJ is the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry through the daily work of its nearly 10,000 members; works to inspire and educate current and future journalists through professional development; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press through its advocacy efforts.
Membership in SPJ is open to all media professionals who uphold the society’s Code of Ethics.
The Virginia Pro Chapter carries out SPJ’s mission on the state level. We hold events for journalists and the general public, honor people who have made outstanding contributions to Virginia journalism, provide financial support for college journalists and speak out in support of free speech, freedom of the press and the First Amendment. Our members include print, broadcast and online journalists across Virginia.
Latest news from SPJVA
State agency websites often fail to post key FOIA info
For Sunshine Week, the SPJ Virginia Pro Chapter and the Virginia Coalition for Open Government collaborated on a survey of state agency websites to see how well they complied with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act.
Hampton Roads Community Foundation hosts journalism panel
Mark your calendar for a free, in-person breakfast panel event titled “Declining Local Journalism & the Risk to Democracy” on Wednesday, Feb. 8.
SPJVA wins grant to mentor journalism students
The national SPJ organization has awarded the Virginia Pro Chapter a $500 grant to help provide in-person journalism student mentoring, including a monthly “Dinner with a Journalist” series, for the SPJ chapter at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Help audit government websites for FOIA compliance
The SPJ Virginia Pro Chapter and the Virginia Coalition for Open Government are collaborating on a project for Sunshine Week, and we need your help. Under state law, state and local government websites must include a link to FOIA rights and responsibilities, including contact information for the agency’s FOIA officer and the process for requesting…
SPJVA Today 