Dave Lougee: Champion for Quality Local Journalism & Media Innovation

Few media executives have done more to shape the future of local journalism than Dave Lougee.

As President and CEO of TEGNA Inc., Lougee led one of America’s largest broadcast and digital media companies through a decade of transformation and innovation. A lifelong champion of quality local news, he began his career in the newsroom and rose through leadership roles at WRC-TV in Washington, D.C., and KUSA-TV in Denver before taking the helm of TEGNA in 2017.

Now retired, Lougee will share his insider perspective as the Press Club of Southwest Florida’s Newsmaker Speaker at the Club’s Tuesday, November 18th luncheon at the Naples Hilton in the Sabal Palm Room. Registration opens at 11:30, and opening comments begin at noon.

Under Lougee’s leadership, TEGNA became a model for how strong local journalism can thrive amid digital disruption. His hallmark was a steadfast commitment to serving communities with integrity, innovation, and impact. His appearance is especially timely: Nexstar Media Group, already the nation’s largest owner of local television stations, is seeking federal and FCC approval to purchase TEGNA for more than $6 billion—a move that could dramatically reshape the future of local news. If approved, Nexstar would reach 80 percent of U.S. television markets, despite the FCC’s 39 percent ownership cap.

Lougee’s insights promise to be invaluable for anyone who cares about the future of local news, the role of technology in journalism, and strategies to counter the rising tide of misinformation and disinformation. This conversation offers a rare opportunity to hear candid observations from one of the most respected voices in American media.

Widely admired for his integrity, vision, and advocacy for strong local journalism, Lougee continues to mentor the next generation of newsroom leaders. The Press Club is proud to welcome him as our featured Newsmaker Speaker.

Also appearing at the November luncheon: Maria Jimenez-Lara, CEO of the Naples Children Foundation, will preview the 2026 Naples Winter Wine Festival—which last year raised more than $34 million to improve the lives of Collier County children.

Important Note: Lougee’s talk will be off the record. No audio or video recording will be permitted.

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