Karen Lincoln Michel will step down as CEO of IndiJ Public Media in Phoenix, the organization said in a press release Monday.
After a successor is hired, Michel will transition to a role focusing on the organization’s “local Indigenous journalism efforts,” according to the release.
“The shift is part of the organization’s strategy to provide opportunities to emerging leaders with proven skills and innovative ideas to move the nonprofit news startup to the next level,” the release said.
Michel was the organization’s first CEO. She started as president of ICT, an independent nonprofit news outlet serving Indigenous communities, in 2019. When IndiJ Public Media acquired the outlet in 2021, CEO was added to her title.
The ICT Newscast airs on 40 public television stations, according to CPB.
“Serving as President and CEO of IndiJ Public Media has been the best part of my career and I can only hope that my next venture with the company will top that experience,” Michel said in the release. “I believe in the organization and its mission to serve Indigenous communities with compelling stories written and produced by Indigenous journalists. What we do matters to our loyal supporters of Indigenous news, and I want to ensure that our coverage deepens at the local and regional level.”
IndiJ Public Media has begun a national search for Michel’s successor.
“Since IndiJ Public Media’s inception, Karen Michel has worked tirelessly to stand up Native voices in media,” said Derrick Beetso, chair of IndiJ’s board. “Karen’s contributions consisted of sound leadership and seasoned insights, but most importantly her diligent efforts have helped IndiJ meet its mission. I celebrate Karen’s tenure as IndiJ’s first-ever CEO and President.”