MADISON, Wis. – After 173 years of serving Wisconsin’s newspaper industry, the Wisconsin Newspaper Association (WNA) today announced it will adopt a new name: the Wisconsin NewsMedia Association (WNA). 

The new name reflects the evolution of how Wisconsin news organizations deliver trusted local journalism to their communities. The name change honors the association’s long and distinguished history while recognizing the realities of modern news consumption. 

While newspapers remain a cornerstone of local news, member organizations today publish content across multiple platforms, including websites, mobile applications, e-newsletters, podcasts, social media channels, streaming services and digital subscription products.  

The transition to the Wisconsin NewsMedia Association acknowledges that today’s news consumers expect information to be available whenever and wherever they choose to access it. The new name also reflects the growing diversity of its membership, which now includes magazines and organizations whose primary news products are delivered digitally. 

“Local journalism has never been more important, and the way we deliver that journalism has expanded far beyond the printed newspaper,” said Greg Mellis, President of the WNA Board of Directors and publisher of The Shawano Leader. “Our new name better reflects who we are today and where our industry is headed. We remain deeply committed to newspapers while embracing all of the platforms our members use to inform, engage and serve Wisconsin communities,” he added.

Founded in 1853, the association is among the oldest trade organizations in Wisconsin and has spent nearly two centuries advocating for a free press, supporting local journalism and protecting the public’s right to know. 

Although the organization’s name is changing, its mission remains unchanged: to support independent journalism, strengthen local news organizations and advocate for transparency and open government on behalf of Wisconsin citizens. 

The association will continue to provide professional development, legal and legislative advocacy and resources that help member organizations thrive in an increasingly complex media environment. 

“Our communities depend on credible, professional journalism regardless of the platform on which it is delivered,” said WNA Executive Director Beth Bennett. “Whether a reader picks up a printed newspaper, opens a mobile app, or visits a digital news site, our members are committed to providing accurate, fact-based reporting.” 

The Wisconsin NewsMedia Association will continue its longstanding role as the voice of local journalism in Wisconsin, advocating before state policymakers on issues involving government transparency, open meetings, public records access and the constitutional protections that ensure citizens remain informed. 

“While our name is changing, our purpose is not,” said Bennett. “For more than 170 years, our members have connected neighbors, held institutions accountable and strengthened civic engagement in communities across Wisconsin. The Wisconsin NewsMedia Association represents the next chapter in that mission.” 


About the Wisconsin NewsMedia Association 
Founded in 1853 as the Wisconsin Newspaper Association, the Wisconsin NewsMedia Association is the statewide trade association representing Wisconsin’s local news organizations. Its members include newspapers, digital news outlets and multimedia organizations committed to producing trusted local journalism and serving communities throughout Wisconsin.

The association advocates for a free and independent press, supports professional development and works to protect the public’s right to know.