Heather McKernan, publisher of the Monadnock Ledger-Transcript, will discuss “The Future of Local News” on July 24 as part of the 2026 Amos Fortune Forum summer speaker series.

The presentation begins at 7 p.m. McKernan’s talk will address the role of a free press in supporting regional democracy, holding local officials accountable, and fostering community dialogue. She will also explore how local news outlets are adapting to technological shifts, incorporating tools like artificial intelligence into reporting, and using philanthropic support to sustain local journalism.

McKernan has served as publisher of the Monadnock Ledger-Transcript since 1995, overseeing all newsroom, advertising, and circulation operations. She joined parent company Newspapers of New England in 1989 at the Concord Monitor, holding roles as human resource manager, controller, and publisher. McKernan holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Lawrence University and a master’s degree in journalism and an MBA from Syracuse University.

Event recordings will be available on YouTube following the presentation. Additional information is available at amosfortune.org.

Ryann Brooks is the Ledger-Transcript editor. She was the 2023 Kansas Press Association Journalist of the Year. You can contact her at rbrooks@ledgertranscript.com.