Our state has been through a lot over the past year — a major election, a natural disaster, legislative decisions affecting all North Carolinians, and continued darkness in open government. Still, journalists and other information providers continue to highlight these statewide issues, while also navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Our fourth annual NC News & Information Summit returns March 12, 2025, at NC Central University. We will celebrate your work while calling attention to the statewide challenges and opportunities facing local news and open government access.

Our keynote will spotlight the communication crisis and unwavering WNC news coverage of Hurricane Helene’s aftermath. We’ll spotlight the journalists, information providers and supporters who provided a lifeline to their communities. Attendees will get a first look at a new toolkit to help communicators, journalists, funders and community partners prepare and act during natural disasters.

The Summit will once again convene participants to lead sessions on big ideas, case studies and best practices to improve public access to information and open government. We’ll also announce the annual Sunshine Awards and the Frank Barrows Award for Excellence in Student Journalism.

We’re inviting pitches for sessions through Jan. 3, and we seek diversity in ideas, perspectives and session facilitators. Join us for this day of learning and action. Get involved by attending, leading a session or sponsoring the day.

Hosted by the NC Open Government Coalition and the NC Local News Workshop, the fourth annual NC News & Information Summit returns Wednesday, March 12, 2025, in Durham at North Carolina Central University.