We are delighted to present Ben Collins, CEO of the legendary satirical news site The Onion, as the first featured speaker at ONA25. The Online News Association’s annual conference is taking place Sept. 10–13 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. Early Bird pricing on registration is available through June 20.
On Thursday, Sept. 11, Ben will join ONA Executive Director and CEO Niketa Patel for a wide-ranging, candid conversation about his journey from disinformation and extremism reporter who was just a big fan of The Onion to leading a small group to rescue the 37-year-old legacy brand after a death sentence from private equity owners.
Since Global Tetrahedron took the helm in April 2024, The Onion has resurrected its print publication, ending nearly a decade as digital-only; relaunched the Onion News Network’s parody videos on YouTube; and nearly doubled its staff to about 30 employees, with more hires planned this year. Through it all, The Onion is reshaping how audiences and newsrooms engage with each other. At ONA25, Ben will discuss why he’s optimistic about the future of the industry, and what journalists can do to build resilience and thrive in a weaponized media environment.
See you in New Orleans!
This year’s ONA conference is shaping up to be an unforgettable gathering for journalists who are leading change in the industry as we explore the themes of AI, climate and resilience. Whether you’re immersed in this work or just beginning your journey, your ideas belong here.
Register for ONA25 by the Early Bird deadline of June 20 for the most affordable pricing on conference passes.
The ONA25 conference pass includes access to four days of in-person learning and networking with the ONA community; the Midway exhibit area and career events; the opportunity to attend select RSVP-only workshops and special events; and direct connections to ONA supporters and industry recruiters.
Beyond the conference
ONA offers opportunities all year to learn with like-minded peers, collaborate on pressing questions and form deeper connections.
