Chapters
SPJ's chapters are the backbone of the Society. Our local connection enables SPJ members to engage in a high level of journalism right in your own community. No matter where your career takes you — from journalism school to the first newsroom and beyond — SPJ is there to help you network in your local community; obtain valuable training from industry experts on the local, regional and national level; mentor young and upcoming journalists; and engage with other journalists nationwide on topics that are the foundation of our Democratic society — Freedom of Information and First Amendment rights. SPJ is empowered to fight for the protection of all journalists through the strong leadership and participation of its nearly 250 local chapters.
How to Start a Chapter
The Society of Professional Journalists is a professional organization. It is not honorary in nature, nor is it any longer a fraternity. In function and membership requirements it is concerned only with the field of journalism and the free flow of information to the public at large.
SPJ's professional chapter expansion policy establishes requirements that embrace the highest standards of professionalism. The professional chapter encourages and assists members in carrying out common objectives. It is through the chapter that individual members join in freedom of the press issues, learn of ethical problems and professional standards and enjoy fellowship of common purpose.
Before the Society's board of directors will consider chartering a new professional chapter of the Society, several requirements must be met and several steps taken. If you're interested in establishing or expanding an SPJ chapter, these guidelines will help get you started on either the professional or campus levels.
