Industry Recognition for Local Media Leadership
Alan Fisco, president and chief executive officer of The Seattle Times Company, was awarded the Frank W. Mayborn Leadership Award during the Senior Leadership Conference hosted by America's Newspapers. The honor recognizes news industry executives who demonstrate strategic vision, community involvement, and sustained contributions to the sustainability of print and digital journalism.
Pat Dorsey, chair of America's Newspapers and publisher of The Santa Fe New Mexican, presented the award to Fisco during the national industry gathering.
"Alan embodies the legacy of Frank Mayborn and what this leadership award is all about," Dorsey said during the presentation. "He leads locally with The Seattle Times to ensure his community is best served by its local newspaper, including setting a groundbreaking path with philanthropically funded journalism."
Contributions to Philanthropically Funded Reporting and Industry Advocacy
Fisco's career at The Seattle Times has included overseeing operational and executive strategies designed to strengthen local reporting models. Under his tenure, the publication pioneered public service reporting initiatives funded through community philanthropy, establishing dedicated labs covering education, homelessness, traffic, and mental health.
In addition to his leadership in Seattle, Fisco has served in national industry roles, including past leadership positions with America's Newspapers and chairing the America's Newspapers Foundation. In these roles, he participated in federal and state legislative advocacy efforts aimed at protecting local news organizations and preserving intellectual property rights amidst changing media landscapes.
Legacy of the Frank W. Mayborn Award
The Frank W. Mayborn Leadership Award is named in memory of Texas newspaperman and publisher Frank W. Mayborn. Created to celebrate executives who guide news organizations through industry transformations, the annual award remains one of the highest individual honors conferred by America's Newspapers.