Tucson Spotlight kicks off campaign to support emerging journalists
Tucson Spotlight has launched its “Fund the Future of Journalism” campaign, a community-driven effort to raise money for paid internships and training opportunities that help prepare the next generation of Southern Arizona reporters.
Tucson Spotlight has launched its “Fund the Future of Journalism” campaign, inviting community members to support paid opportunities for student reporters and emerging newsroom professionals.
The campaign’s goal is to raise funds that ensure interns and early-career reporters are paid for their work, a key principle of the newsroom’s mission to both train and remunerate new journalists.
“Tucson Spotlight believes deeply in creating real pathways into journalism for students who live here and know our community,” said Publisher and Editor Caitlin Schmidt. “Even if they don’t choose journalism as a career, this experience shows them how local news works, why it matters and how their voices can strengthen our civic life.”
Since its launch in September 2024, Tucson Spotlight has partnered with the University of Arizona, Pima Community College, San Miguel High School and BASIS North to create meaningful opportunities for aspiring reporters.
Through these collaborations, more than 35 early-career journalists have gained hands-on experience covering real community stories while learning the skills and ethics of professional journalism and getting paid for their work.
These partnerships have helped cultivate the next generation of storytellers who understand Tucson, its people and the power of local news.
“Working at Tucson Spotlight has taught me not only how to be a good journalist, but why we need good journalists. When we don’t have community-focused non-profit journalism, a lot of things slip through the cracks," said UA journalism student and Tucson Spotlight intern Ian Stash. "Plenty of the things we cover are only covered by Tucson Spotlight. Every city needs a newsroom run by members of the community for members of the community.”
Tucson Spotlight’s newsroom is built around the idea that supporting diverse, deeply rooted voices helps build stronger community coverage.
“This newsroom has turned my passion for writing into a purpose for my community," said Social Media Manager Angelina Maynes, a 2024 graduate of the University of Arizona. "Tucson Spotlight has taught me that local journalism isn’t just about breaking news, it’s about showing up, listening, and letting our community know we’re here to support them as they have supported us.”
Those interested in supporting the initiative can visit mp.giving/g2mral to contribute. Every dollar will help Tucson Spotlight pay and train emerging journalists who are already telling the stories of Southern Arizona.
“Being part of the Spotlight team has been an incredible experience, opening doors for me early in my career that many journalists don’t encounter until much later," said UA graduate student and Tucson Spotlight intern McKenna Manzo. "This internship has allowed me to explore a variety of beats and truly immerse myself in the Tucson community. Through each story, I’ve discovered my voice as a writer and strengthened my work-ethic.”
The campaign will run through December 31. All donations are tax deductible.
Tucson Spotlight
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.
