SPJ Florida Endorses Jason Parsley for National Board

SPJ Florida is proud to endorse Jason Parsley, current Vice President of Membership, for national office as Secretary/Treasurer.

Parsley has served on the board the last six years; the chapter has won outstanding chapter of the year twice since he began his tenure. Current SPJ Florida President Dori Zinn touts his extensive list of accomplishments.

“Since Jason joined the board, we have increased membership, programming, and student outreach. We even expanded our chapter to include the entire state as well as some US territories,” Zinn said. “Without Jason, we would never have won chapter of the year. We are thrilled to support him in any way we can.”

Parsley is the executive editor for South Florida Gay News and previously served as a director, treasurer, and president for SPJ Florida. Under his presidency, SPJ Florida was created. In 2013, SPJ South Florida expanded to accept journalists from across the state that weren’t covered by an existing chapter. Parsley’s “no journalist left behind” mentality has ensured all journalists have the support they need and deserve wherever they are.

Parsley also spearheaded the Sunshine State Awards revamp—the chapter’s annual journalism awards program that recognizes the best in Florida media. While the awards committee chair, Parsley has added an entire Spanish language category, as well as diversity and minority reporting awards. Entries from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are also accepted.

“Jason becoming Secretary/Treasurer of the SPJ National Board is not just a win for the board, it’s a win for all journalists everywhere,” Zinn said. “I’m happy we had him as long as we did. All of SPJ will benefit from his hard work and perseverance.”

Chapter members: please keep a look out for an email from SPJ National with instructions on how to vote starting Friday, Sept. 18.