Health and policy journalist joins National Press Club Journalism Institute as new training director

Bara Vaida, an experienced health and science journalist who reports on business, consumer, wellness, and policy issues, has joined the National Press Club Journalism Institute as its director of training. Vaida began last month.

In her new role, Vaida will develop and expand the Institute’s professional development portfolio and training strategy; create unique learning opportunities for journalists; and produce timely resources for journalists, including the Institute’s afternoon newsletter, The Latest.

“The Institute’s work is vital to ensuring an independent and free press, and I’m honored to bring my background and experience to the organization,” Vaida said. “I look forward to inspiring and supporting journalists across the country with the training and resources they need to succeed."

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club.

Vaida brings a wealth of experience and service to the Institute’s community of more than 8,000 program participants and subscribers throughout the U.S. Through her 30 years as both a newsroom and independent journalist, she’s navigated the halls of Congress and has gained an in-depth understanding of corporate, economic, and international business issues, health care policy, lobbying, and technology.

“Her perspective as a journalist and a trainer who has worked with a number of news organizations will help shape how the Institute meets the ever-evolving needs of journalists," said Beth Francesco, executive director of the Institute.

Vaida has worked for several news organizations in Washington, including National Journal, Agence France-Presse and Bloomberg News. In 2020, at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Vaida served as the core topic leader on infectious diseases for the Association of Health Care Journalists. In that role, she coordinated training and resources to assist her peers as they reported in real time the ongoing health crisis.

She also plans to take a holistic approach to journalists as individuals through support for their career, mental, and physical well-being. She also is a certified yoga instructor.