The Online News Association (ONA) has announced the appointment of Niketa Patel as its new Executive Director/CEO, effective March 31, at a crucial juncture for global journalism.
With over 20 years of experience across newsrooms, tech platforms, and journalism education, Niketa Patel is a respected digital journalist and expert in audience engagement, product strategy, and partnerships. She most recently served as Senior Director of Leadership Programs at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY, leading the school’s flagship Executive Program in News Innovation & Leadership.
Patel assumes leadership of ONA amid rising challenges in the industry—from press freedom threats and AI risks to financial pressures and climate coverage complexities. As CEO, she will focus on innovation-driven leadership, program excellence, and strengthening ONA’s role as a hub for digital journalism pioneers.
“To say that I’m ecstatic to lead ONA at such a crucial time in journalism is an understatement,” said Patel. “ONA has been foundational to my career, and I’m honored to lead such an inspiring and future-focused community.”
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Patel has long been part of ONA, having served six years on its Board of Directors, including roles as Secretary and Vice President. She now succeeds LaSharah S. Bunting, who stepped down to join The 19th, and follows Hanaa Rifaey, who served as interim leader.
Charo Henríquez, ONA Board President and Editor at The New York Times, welcomed Patel’s appointment, noting: “Her deep ties to the community and her cross-sector expertise make her the ideal leader for ONA’s next chapter.”
With a mission to support changemakers in journalism, Patel’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to collaboration, diversity, and innovation in digital news.
MediaBites congratulates Niketa Patel on her appointment as Executive Director/CEO of the Online News Association (ONA) and wishes her all the very best in her future endeavors. Her leadership and dedication to digital journalism come at a pivotal time for the industry, and we look forward to seeing the innovation and impact she will bring to ONA and the journalism community at large.
