Karen Lincoln Michel is set to step down as the CEO of IndiJ Public Media in Phoenix, as announced by the organization in a recent press release. Michel will be transitioning to a new role focusing on the organization’s local Indigenous journalism efforts once a successor has been hired.
According to the press release, this shift is part of the organization’s strategic plan to provide opportunities to emerging leaders who possess proven skills and innovative ideas to advance the nonprofit news startup to the next level. Michel initially joined the organization as the president of ICT, an independent nonprofit news outlet catering to Indigenous communities, in 2019. Her title was later upgraded to CEO when IndiJ Public Media acquired ICT in 2021.
The ICT Newscast, a program led by Michel, is currently broadcasted on 40 public television stations. Michel expressed her gratitude for her role as President and CEO of IndiJ Public Media, stating that it has been the highlight of her career. She emphasized her belief in the organization’s mission to deliver compelling stories created by Indigenous journalists to Indigenous communities.
IndiJ Public Media has already commenced a national search to find a suitable replacement for Michel. Derrick Beetso, chair of IndiJ’s board, praised Michel’s dedication to amplifying Native voices in the media landscape, highlighting her leadership, insights, and unwavering commitment to fulfilling IndiJ’s mission during her tenure as the first CEO and President of the organization.
