News leader Diana Fuentes named posthumous recipient of James Madison Award
AUSTIN – Diana R. Fuentes, a veteran Texas journalist and news industry leader who was an ardent advocate for a free press and open government, is the posthumous recipient of this year’s James Madison Award.
Bestowed by the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, the honor recognizes those who demonstrate their commitment to government transparency and First Amendment rights. The award will be presented to Fuentes’ family at the organization’s state conference Sept. 18 in Austin.
Fuentes, known to many as “DeeDee,” was respected statewide and nationally. She was executive director of Investigative Reporters & Editors Inc. when she passed away unexpectedly in March. She was also a longtime member of the nonprofit FOI Foundation board, where she generously gave her time, energy and ideas. She served as FOIFT board president from 2014-16 and in other officer and executive committee roles.
In all her work, whether reporting a story, leading a newsroom team in San Antonio, Laredo or other cities in Texas, mentoring young journalists, supporting experienced investigative reporters or volunteering to educate the public, she was devoted to the free flow of information.
IRE board president Josh Hinkle, also an FOIFT board member, noted at Fuentes’ memorial service in Del Rio that she had reminded IRE colleagues across the country: “We have a constitutionally protected right – and deep responsibility – to keep the people informed, and we will not stop.”
“Nobody was a stronger champion of open government and transparency than DeeDee — she was always quick to lend a hand, offer great ideas and fight for what’s right,” said Ayan Mittra, current president of the FOI Foundation of Texas board. “Her legacy is one of service, dedication and support, and nobody is more deserving of this honor.”
FOI Foundation executive director Kelley Shannon praised Fuentes’ tenacity in tracking the truth as a reporter and editor and her willingness to speak out at the Texas Capitol and other venues to promote and protect the people’s right to know.
“DeeDee helped public officials and all sorts of citizens understand the importance of our information rights,” Shannon said. “She was incredibly passionate about freedom of information.”
The nonprofit FOI Foundation of Texas has presented the James Madison Award annually since 1987 to journalists, attorneys, public officials and vigilant citizens and organizations.
In addition to honoring Fuentes, the FOIFT state conference Sept. 18 will present Spirit of FOI Awards to outstanding news organizations during the John Henry Faulk Awards Luncheon. The luncheon’s keynote speaker will be Garrett Haake, chief White House correspondent for NBC News. Other sessions will explore timely transparency and free speech issues.
The conference and luncheon are open to members of the public who wish to register. The event will be at the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center, 1900 University Ave., in Austin. A registration link and other conference information can be found at https://foift.org/
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