Texas Press Association

Texas Press Association is the voice of the state's newspaper industry. The association promotes the welfare of Texas newspapers, encourages higher standards of journalism, and plays an important role in protecting the public's right to know as an advocate of First Amendment liberties.

TPA is one of the nation’s oldest and largest newspaper trade associations. As of November 2011, TPA represents 478 paid-circulation newspapers in publication — 75 dailies and 403 non-dailies. The 2.94 million combined circulation proves that Texans continue to rely on newspapers as their primary source of news and advertising.

Over 130 years ago, 77 Texas newspaper publishers made the long journey across Texas to the fledgling town of Houston to establish a state press organization. On May 19, 1880, the association was founded, and J.W. Fishburn of the Mexia Ledger was elected the first president.

Today, TPA continues to be the trusted source that Texas publishers turn to for information on editorial, advertising, postal, legal and legislative issues.

TPA is a non-profit trade association with two affiliates: Texas Press Service Inc., the for-profit sales and service arm of TPA; and the Texas Newspaper Foundation, a separate non-profit entity with its own governing body. TNF supports education and training opportunities for working journalists.

TPA and TPS are governed by a 30-member board of directors. This diverse group is composed of the executive director, five elected officers, six elected directors, eight appointed directors and 10 officers from the state’s five regional press associations.

With the assistance of volunteer committees, the support of its officers and directors and strong cooperation from members, TPA staff provide a comprehensive service program that fosters strong newspapers.