Statement on the passing of IRE Executive Director Diana Fuentes

WASHINGTON, March 23 — National Press Club President Mark Schoeff Jr. and National Press Club Journalism Institute President Mike Balsamo issued the following statement today on the passing of Diana Fuentes, executive director of Investigative Reporters and Editors:

“The National Press Club mourns the loss of Diana Fuentes, executive director of Investigative Reporters and Editors and a deeply respected leader in journalism.

Diana brought more than three decades of experience — and a rare generosity of spirit — to a career defined by mentorship, inclusion, and an unwavering belief in the power of investigative reporting.

She worked tirelessly to expand access to training, support journalists facing risk, and ensure more voices were heard across our profession.

Her impact extended far beyond any one organization. She mentored generations of reporters, championed diversity in newsrooms, and believed deeply in journalism’s responsibility to hold power to account and inform the public.

Diana was also a longtime friend and supporter of the National Press Club community, and her presence will be profoundly missed.

Her legacy lives on in every reporter she encouraged, every story she helped make possible, and every truth pursued because she believed it should be.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family and the IRE community.”

About the National Press Club

Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world’s leading professional organization for journalists. With 2,500 members, the Club, through its Press Freedom Center, is a leading voice for press freedom in the U.S. and worldwide.

Contact: Beth Francesco, Executive Director of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, [email protected]