M.P. Wadsworth becomes Knight Foundation's First Female CEO

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, known for its yearly contributions in journalism, arts, and technology, has appointed Maribel Perez Wadsworth as its next president and CEO, in a historic move. Maribel, a Miami native and the daughter of Cuban immigrants, will be the foundation's first female president in its 72-year existence.

Maribel, 50, a product of Coral Gables Senior High School and the University of Miami, brings to the foundation over 26 years of expertise, including her role as previous president of Gannett Media and publisher of USA Today. She will take over the foundation in January, following Alberto Ibargüen, who has directed it for the past 18 years.

In an era of declining public faith in institutions, Maribel admits the difficulties but underlines the significance of her immigrant heritage and her family's efforts. She views her job as a chance to propel the foundation's support for media, the arts, and community participation forward.

With a $2.6 billion endowment, the Knight Foundation has played an important role in changing communities and developing informed democracy. Maribel’s significant media and business expertise, notably her leadership in Gannett's digital transformation, positions her as a powerful advocate for the foundation's goal.

Maribel’s dedication to diversity and inclusion in journalism won her the Robert G. McGruder Award for Diversity Leadership from the News Leaders Association in 2019. She also serves on the boards of the Pew Research Center and the Associated Press.

Maribel becomes a trailblazer and role model for women in Miami and worldwide as the first woman to oversee the Knight Foundation. Her significant links to South Florida, as a UM alumnus and board member, strengthen her ties to the community.

Maribel expressed her enthusiasm at the prospect of returning to her hometown and overseeing an organization that has evolved in tandem with Miami. The foundation's commitment to supporting the arts, media, and community matches with her beliefs, and she looks forward to continuing these essential endeavors with the team and partners.