JAWS needs (and values!) your time and experience. Please apply to join a JAWS committee or task force to invest in our thriving network of women in journalism.
Here’s how to get involved with JAWS Committees
Journalism & Women Symposium (JAWS) is and always has been member driven. That means our ambitious plans can’t happen without you, our members, joining committees and task forces — volunteering to get things done!
The JAWS board and staff have listened to your suggestions, and have structured committees and task forces that will put your skills and ideas to work — whether that’s designing new digital programming, participating in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, working on a mentorship and student outreach strategy, supporting regional get-togethers and much more.
Joining a committee is a fantastic opportunity to engage in DEI, financial planning, marketing or fundraising to reinforce JAWS’ mission of supporting the professional empowerment and personal growth of women in journalism and working toward a more accurate portrayal of the whole society. You’ll develop leadership skills, build your resume, make new friends, expand your network -- and above all help JAWS deliver the best resources, the most innovative programming and a stronger sense of community for our members – that includes you!
You must be a current, active JAWS member to volunteer with any of these committees. If you would like to join JAWS, visit our member sign-up page.
To apply to volunteer for a committee or task force, select your first choice committee from the boxes under the "Sign Up" header at the right of your screen (or at the bottom of this page if you're on mobile). This will take you to a fresh page where you can fill out the application form. Because each committee has its own volunteer needs, you will be asked to select two alternate committee choices.
If you have questions, feel free to contact Interim Executive Director Eloiza Altoro at director@jaws.org or 414-333-6716 or Communications and Program Manager J. Kyle Foster at support@jaws.org
Programs and Services Committee
Help evaluate past national and regional programming to keep what works! Recommend and help design NEW all-year programming for the JAWS community, including professional development; current issues in journalism; fellowships; collaborations; mentorship and sponsorship.
Develop the annual conference programming, including keynote speaker(s), panel sessions and training workshops in addition to activities.
Understand the composition of, assess the needs and identify value and benefits for the JAWS membership. Lead efforts in sustaining and boosting JAWS membership, with emphasis on diversity in age, race, ethnicity, media, and regions of the country.
Set goals and offer guidance for assuring that diversity is reflected and promoted throughout JAWS.
Provide financial oversight and support to JAWS. Works with the treasurer to review expenditures and determine the annual budget, including funds available for CAMP and scholarships/fellowships.
Work with the board to raise funds and develop sources of revenue to sustain and expand JAWS programs and services.
Oversee external and internal communications to assure that members are fully informed and to heighten the profile of JAWS across platforms. Coordinates public statements on behalf of the organization with the JAWS president, board and staff.
Support regional captains on partnering and developing programming to meet the needs of regional members during the year at locations across the country.
Special Projects and Research Task Force
Develop revenue-generating program ideas that JAWS can offer to members and nonmembers alike.
Organization of Policies and Bylaws Task Force
Work to update current JAWS bylaws. Review and provide recommendations.
Mentorship, Fellowship and Student Outreach
Evaluate and update JAWS programs geared toward students and young professionals.