Freedom Forum: Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference Recently Updated

Now in its 25th year, the Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference is an engaging, in-depth, five-day summer program for 51 high school juniors (one from each state and the District of Columbia) who “Dream. Dare. Do.” This skill-building, network-growing journalism experience provides insider access to newsrooms and the nation’s top journalists, connections with students from across the U.S. and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C.

The Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference on June 21-26, 2026, provides 51 students (one high school junior from each state plus the District of Columbia) with an all-expenses-paid program that includes panel conversations with journalists and multimedia storytellers, newsroom visits, networking events, a chance to meet students and industry leaders who share a passion for news, and a unique Washington, D.C., experience. Whether you’re interested in print and broadcast journalism, multimedia storytelling or podcasts, this program is for you!  

Location: Freedom Forum’s Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Conference benefits include:

• Advice from leading journalists and media professionals, including news influencers and digital entrepreneurs. Past speakers have included NBC’s Chief Political Analyst Chuck Todd and Pulitzer Prize-winning NYT reporter Megan Twohey
• A 1,000 college scholarship. 
• A free five-day trip to the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., June 21-26, 2026, with hotel, airfare and meal expenses covered.
• Lifelong connections to 50 fellow students from across the country and professionals who share your passions.
• Ongoing support from a community of more than 1,700 program alumni who work at organizations including:
  • Apple
  • ABC News
  • Amazon
  • the TODAY Show
  • the U.S. State Department
  • The Washington Post
  • The Wall Street Journal
  • USA TODAY
  • start-ups such as digital news site The Juggernaut