Public Narrative is pleased to announce the addition of Sylvia Ewing to its leadership team as Vice President of Journalism and Media Engagement. In this role, Ewing will spearhead initiatives to strengthen relationships between journalists, media outlets, and the communities they serve, furthering Public Narrative’s mission to foster impactful storytelling and civic dialogue.
A distinguished media professional, nonprofit leader, and community builder, Ewing has been a long-time trusted voice in Chicago’s media landscape, known for her work as a broadcaster, executive, and advocate for culture and community.
Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing Public Narrative’s efforts to support journalists and community voices in shaping narratives that drive social change.
“Sylvia’s depth of experience and commitment to uplifting diverse perspectives make her the ideal person to lead our journalism and media engagement efforts at this moment in Public Narrative’s growing legacy,” said Jhmira Alexander, PN’s President and Executive Director. “As an award-winning journalist and a nonprofit executive, her lived experience, empathy, and commitment to our region will play a vital role in Public Narrative’s ongoing work to support journalists and community organizations in producing inclusive, solutions-oriented reporting. We are excited to welcome her to our team and look forward to the impact she will have in strengthening the bridge between the media and the communities we serve,” says Alexander.
“The essential role of media in society has been diminished by downsizing, agents of disinformation and mistrust. And the issues nonprofits need us to know about are often lost in an overwhelming landscape of too much noise and too little media literacy,” said Sylvia Ewing. “I am thrilled to join Public Narrative to support independent, fact-based journalism and storytelling for the public good.” The incoming VP adds, “I am humbled and grateful that Jhmira and the Public Narrative board have allowed me to make an impact together, especially at this time of urgency. I hope that my network of partners will join us.”
Ewing is a current board director for the Chicago Headline Club Foundation, Illinois Humanities, and Kartemquin Films. She is also on the advisory board for Chicago’s Press Forward initiative and the Center for the Performing Arts at Governor State University. She is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the Communications Network.
Ewing started her full time role March 3, 2025.