Dwayne Burtin, web producer in the Office of Marketing and Communication, has been named a member of the 2019 Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media, a partnership between Poynter Institute and The Washington Post.
The academy recognizes pioneers in the field of digital media from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds who have demonstrated an aptitude for leadership. Burtin is also deputy editor of digital news for Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.
“It’s an honor to have been picked to be part of such a prestigious academy made up of inspiring, hardworking and passionate people,” Burtin said. “The academy represents a diverse cross section of professionals, and it is an incredible opportunity to be able to come together, hone our skills and strengthen the presence of people of color as leaders in digital media.”
Burtin is one of 30 journalists — out of 120 applicants — chosen for this year’s academy. The group will visit Poynter’s campus in St. Petersburg, Florida, next month for a transformative, tuition-free leadership program and training seminar taught by more than 20 expert instructors. The seminar examines the challenges for journalists of color in management, and provides the connections, confidence and skills to confront them.
Burtin’s academy class is considered one of the most intersectional and diverse classes in the history of the program. Academy members were selected by a committee that includes graduates of the program with an emphasis on ensuring diversity across ethnicity, geography, technology platforms, organization size and skill sets.
More information about the organizations
The Poynter Institute for Media Studies is a nonprofit journalism school and research organization located in St. Petersburg, Florida. The school is the owner of the Tampa Bay Times newspaper.
This year marks the first time The Washington Post is involved with the Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media. The news organization will serve as a teaching partner, giving insights about innovation and newsroom diversity.