Our Free Press Programs
Freedom Forum supports America’s free press with three flagship programs that connect with journalists throughout various stages of their careers.
Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference
2025 Free Spirit Scholars
The Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference selects 51 high school juniors from across the country each year for a life-changing conference in Washington, D.C. Participants receive an all-expenses-paid trip and a $1,000 scholarship to the college of their choice. Free Spirits have been described as people who “dream, dare, do,” in the words of Al Neuharth, Freedom Forum and USA TODAY founder, who inspired the program.
Chips Quinn Reporter Fellowship
Chips Quinn Class of 2023
The Chips Quinn Reporter Fellowship provides mentorship and training for early-career journalists with up to five years of full-time experience. Fellows receive mentorship, training and a $10,000 career stipend.
First Amendment Reporters Initiative
First Amendment Reporters Initiative
Freedom Forum launched the First Amendment Reporters Initiative by partnering with Journalism Funding Partners in 2022 to create and staff a First Amendment beat at The Tennessean in Nashville. The First Amendment Reporters Initiative has since expanded and today includes five Freedom Forum First Amendment Reporters at USA TODAY Network publications: The Tennessean, Tallahassee Democrat, The Arizona Republic, The Indianapolis Star and USA TODAY.