Tucson Spotlight co-founder Caitlin Schmidt has been named one of 15 journalists nationwide selected to participate in a City University of New York Nonprofit News Business Certificate program.

Offered through CUNY's Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, the nine-month initiative is designed to cultivate the next generation of nonprofit news leaders.

The program, now entering its second cohort, equips participants with the business skills necessary to guide nonprofit news organizations toward sustainability while producing impactful, community-driven journalism.

Over the course of the program, Schmidt and her fellow participants will engage in a two-day in-person kick-off in New York City, an intensive 2.5-month virtual bootcamp and a six-month project phase featuring classes, coaching, and peer collaboration.

Participants will explore topics including finance, fundraising, marketing, data-driven decision making, and even leveraging AI for operational efficiencies. The program aims to empower leaders capable of navigating the challenges of nonprofit media while expanding its reach and influence in local communities.

Schmidt said the opportunity will help Tucson Spotlight continue its mission of delivering rigorous, community-focused reporting while exploring sustainable models for local journalism in Tucson.

“This program is a chance to strengthen both our editorial and business strategies,” Schmidt said. “It’s an investment in ensuring local journalism thrives in the years ahead.”

The cohort starts classes later this month. Applications will open in the winter for the third cohort, starting in the spring of 2026.

Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation.