Donna Barrett, Peter Horvitz and Steven Swartz also cited for contributions
The American Press Institute has awarded its Lifetime Service Award to Mark Contreras, senior vice president/newspapers for The E.W. Scripps Co. The award, presented at the API board of directors meeting Nov. 9, is given to those who have made life-long contributions to the newspaper industry and recognizes individuals who have significantly supported and promoted the professional advancement and leadership training of newspaper executives. Contreras becomes only the 15th recipient of this award during API's 60-year history.
Contreras was a member of API's executive, nominating, online and finance committees in addition to serving as treasurer from 2003 to 2007 and chairman from 2007 to 2009. He first joined the board in 1996 and served a total of 13 years. Contreras was a driving force in the institute's 60th anniversary campaign, culminating in API's groundbreaking Newspaper Next project.
"Mark's long and dedicated service to API is deeply appreciated," said API President and Executive Director Drew Davis. "His contributions during his 13-year tenure on the board are almost too numerous to mention, and his leadership as chairman has been invaluable in positioning API as the forum and facilitator of top-level collaboration during a time of vital importance to the industry."
The institute also awarded certificates of appreciation for the service of outgoing board members Donna J. Barrett, Peter A. Horvitz and Steven Swartz. Barrett, president and CEO of Community Newspaper Holdings Inc. (Birmingham, Ala.) was lauded for her leadership and guidance as a board member from 2001 to 2009, and as vice chairman from 2007 to 2009.
"Donna's strong voice on behalf of the newspaper industry, smaller newspapers and gender diversity has been a guiding force on the API board for nearly a decade," said Davis. "The board and staff sincerely appreciate her commitment, energy and personal dedication to API."
Horvitz, chairman, president and CEO of Horvitz Newspapers Inc. (Bellevue, Wash.), served on the board from 2001 to 2009. He served on the finance and corporate membership committees, and was cited for his key contributions to the institute's long-term financial health and enthusiastic participation in API programs.
The board also expressed its appreciation to Swartz, president of Hearst Newspapers (New York). He was elected to the board in 2007, and served on the institute's online committee.
