Aspen Institute Michael Cromartie Forum 2026 for Emerging Journalists in the USA: Apply for a Transformative Journalism Experience

The Aspen Institute’s Religion & Society Program is now accepting applications for the Michael Cromartie Forum 2026, an exclusive professional development opportunity designed for emerging journalists who want to deepen their understanding of the role religion plays in shaping politics, culture, public policy, and civic life.

Taking place in Middleburg, Virginia, USA, from August 30 to September 1, 2026, the Forum provides an intellectually engaging environment where early-career journalists can interact with experienced reporters, editors, scholars, and thought leaders through meaningful conversations rooted in the Aspen Institute’s long-standing tradition of respectful dialogue and critical thinking.

The Michael Cromartie Forum is more than a journalism conference—it is an immersive learning experience that equips participants with new perspectives, stronger reporting skills, and valuable professional networks that can influence their careers for years to come.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and are expected to close around July 1, 2026. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

About the Michael Cromartie Forum

In today’s rapidly evolving media landscape, journalists are expected to cover increasingly complex issues that intersect with politics, religion, identity, ethics, democracy, and culture. Religion continues to influence elections, policymaking, international affairs, education, social movements, and community life, making religious literacy an essential skill for modern journalism.

Recognizing this need, the Aspen Institute’s Religion & Society Program established the Michael Cromartie Forum to help emerging journalists better understand how faith and religion influence public life while strengthening their ability to report accurately, fairly, and thoughtfully on these issues.

Named in honor of the late Michael Cromartie, a respected advocate for improving religion reporting in mainstream media, the Forum continues his legacy by creating space for journalists to engage with scholars and experienced practitioners in open, nonpartisan dialogue. The program emphasizes curiosity, intellectual humility, and rigorous discussion rather than debate or advocacy.

What Participants Can Expect

During the three-day Forum, participants will engage in a series of carefully curated discussions, presentations, and interactive sessions covering topics at the intersection of religion and public life.

The program brings together:

• Experienced journalists from leading media organizations.
• Editors with expertise in religion, politics, and public affairs reporting.
• Distinguished scholars and researchers.
• Public intellectuals and subject-matter experts.
• Fellow emerging journalists from diverse backgrounds.

Rather than focusing on breaking news, the Forum encourages participants to examine the deeper historical, cultural, philosophical, and ethical dimensions of current events. This format allows journalists to gain insights that strengthen their long-term reporting and storytelling abilities.

Why You Should Apply

Participating in the Michael Cromartie Forum offers numerous professional and personal benefits, including:

• Exposure to leading scholars and experienced journalists.
• A deeper understanding of religion’s influence on politics, society, and culture.
• Opportunities to improve reporting on complex public issues.
• Networking with fellow journalists from different media organizations.
• Participation in thoughtful, nonpartisan discussions.
• Membership in a growing community of journalism professionals committed to intellectual excellence.
• Professional growth through meaningful dialogue and collaborative learning.

The Forum provides participants with the time and space to think critically about journalism beyond the pressures of daily newsroom deadlines.

Who Is the Forum Designed For?

The program is primarily intended for emerging journalists between the ages of 22 and 30, although the organizers clearly state that there are no strict age requirements.

Applicants may include:

• Print journalists.
• Broadcast journalists.
• Digital media reporters.
• Multimedia journalists.
• Editors early in their careers.
• Independent journalists.
• Freelance reporters.
• Journalism graduates beginning their professional careers.

The organizers welcome applicants who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a commitment to high-quality journalism, and an interest in understanding the role religion plays in contemporary society.

Venue and Dates

The 2026 Michael Cromartie Forum will take place in:

Location: Middleburg, Virginia, USA

Dates: August 30 – September 1, 2026

The setting is intentionally designed to encourage focused learning, reflection, relationship-building, and open dialogue among participants.

Why Religion Reporting Matters

Religion remains one of the most influential forces shaping communities across the world. It affects public policy, elections, education, healthcare, international relations, social justice movements, humanitarian work, and cultural identity.

Despite this influence, religion is often misunderstood or underreported in mainstream journalism.

The Michael Cromartie Forum seeks to bridge this gap by helping journalists:

1. Improve religious literacy.
2. Better understand diverse faith traditions.
3. Report accurately on religion-related issues.
4. Explore how religious beliefs intersect with politics and public life.
5. Produce more nuanced, balanced, and informed journalism.

These skills are increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected and multicultural world.

Professional Networking Opportunities

One of the Forum’s greatest strengths is the opportunity to build lasting professional relationships.

Participants become part of a network that includes:

• National and international journalists.
• Editors.
• Academic experts.
• Public policy specialists.
• Religion scholars.
• Media leaders.

These connections often lead to future collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the official application through the Aspen Institute Online Form.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning candidates may receive consideration as applications are submitted. Since spaces are limited, applying early significantly improves the chances of being considered.

Expected Application Deadline: Around July 1, 2026

Applicants are encouraged to prepare a thoughtful application that demonstrates their journalism experience, curiosity about public affairs, and commitment to producing accurate, insightful reporting.

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