A Statement from the Center for Media Innovation Regarding Recent News Outlet Closures January 13, 2026

 

The past week has been a whirlwind, but the Center for Media Innovation was built for moments exactly like this.

Because of the work happening across our network every day, the regional media ecosystem is more resilient and better connected than it would otherwise be. We are fortunate to have the deep and active support of Point Park University and its leadership, which enables us to respond quickly and thoughtfully when journalism in our region faces upheaval.

The closures of the Pittsburgh City Paper and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette are seismic events for our community, and they are causing real pain for our friends and colleagues in journalism. We encourage everyone to reach out within their networks—to remind those affected that they are not alone. The Center for Media Innovation is here to support what comes next.

For the broader community, we are helping provide context: why these changes are happening, what they mean for local news, and how communities can navigate the uncertainty ahead. That is why so many people are turning to the Center right now—to understand this moment and to think critically about the future of journalism.

At the same time, we are focused on what is possible. Through the Pittsburgh Media Partnership, we regularly convene newsroom leaders for discussion and collaboration. These conversations now carry even greater urgency. We are committed to helping the region adapt, collaborate, and imagine new paths forward for a media ecosystem that is resilient, and innovative. More than 30 independent news outlets in a 10-county region are part of the PMP. 

There is work to be done. Because we have prepared for this moment, we are ready to meet the challenge—and energized by the responsibility it brings. If you have questions, ideas, or want to engage with this work, please reach out to me directly or to Kim Palmiero, assistant director of the CMI.

I am proud of the people and partners who make this work possible. Point Park University has given us a unique opportunity to serve the people of southwestern Pennsylvania—and beyond. Our region is stronger because of it.

 

Andrew Conte, Ph.D.

 

For questions or engagement, contact Andrew Conte (aconte@pointpark.edu) or Kim Palmiero (kpalmiero@pointpark.edu).