Knight Foundation appoints Amalie Nash as vice president of journalism

The Knight Foundation has appointed veteran newsroom leader Amalie Nash as vice president of journalism to oversee its $632 million portfolio, driving innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability in local news.

Imran Malik — Sept. 5, 2025 — The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has named veteran newsroom leader Amalie Nash as its new vice president of journalism, overseeing the foundation’s $632 million journalism portfolio.

With nearly three decades of experience, Nash has built a reputation as a strong advocate for local news, digital transformation, and newsroom sustainability. She most recently served as head of transformation at the National Trust for Local News and newsroom transformation initiative lead for the International News Media Association (INMA).

“Amalie’s career reflects both a deep commitment to local journalism and a clear vision for its future,” said Maribel Pérez Wadsworth, president of Knight Foundation. “Her leadership at the intersection of newsrooms, technology and community engagement will help ensure Knight remains at the forefront of supporting sustainable models of journalism.”

Nash’s extensive career includes serving as senior vice president of local news and audience development for Gannett and the USA TODAY Network, where she helped build the USA TODAY Network of 110 newsrooms in 2016. Following the GateHouse merger in 2019, she oversaw more than 260 publications. She has also led The Des Moines Register as executive editor and worked at The Detroit Free Press as assistant managing editor.

Her work has spanned content strategy, digital subscription growth, audience development and advising global newsrooms on adapting to platform shifts. A long-time supporter of public records access and transparency, Nash has also served with the Iowa Freedom of Information Council and Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition.

“It is an honor to join Knight at such a critical time for journalism,” Nash said. “I look forward to working with the Knight team and its partners to advance innovation and sustainability across the field.”

Nash will officially begin her new role later this month.

MediaBites warmly congratulates Amalie Nash on her appointment. With her proven leadership in strengthening local journalism and driving innovation, we believe she will make a transformative impact on the future of independent journalism.