Wednesday, May 20th Luncheon Meeting Featuring Guest Speaker: Daralene Jones, Four-time Emmy Award–Winning Journalist and Investigative Leader

EVENT REGISTRATION  

Advance registration and payment required: 

$45 for members and $50 for guests.  

This event will sell out!  Early registration is strongly encouraged!

SPEAKER TOPIC

Truth, Accountability, and the Public Trust: The Role of Investigative Journalism in a Democratic Society.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

• Daralene Jones is a four-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and investigative leader who anchors the 12:00 and 4:00 p.m. newscasts at WFTV-Channel 9, where she also produces high-impact investigative reports and documentaries. With more than 16 years of service in Central Florida and nearly 25 years in journalism, her reporting has shaped public dialogue, driven accountability, and influenced meaningful change across the state.
• Jones is the executive producer of Historic Jones High and the award-winning Ocoee Massacre project, a comprehensive documentary initiative that includes a companion website and podcast. She also produced the Emmy Award–winning special Groveland Four: Journey to Exoneration, further solidifying her reputation for delivering rigorous, community-centered journalism that confronts complex historical and criminal justice issues.
• Throughout her career, Jones has focused on exposing government corruption, holding powerful institutions accountable, and amplifying the voices of disenfranchised communities—particularly within education and the criminal justice systems. Her investigative work reflects a deep commitment to equity, transparency, and systemic reform.
• Before joining WFTV, Jones reported in Decatur and Springfield, Illinois, as well as in Memphis and Philadelphia, where she served as lead reporter on major stories involving government, education, and terrorism.
• A sought-after host and speaker, Jones is an active member of Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Florida Executive Women, Central Florida Women’s League, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.. She serves on the board of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida (Downtown), continuing her longstanding commitment to youth development and community engagement.
• In February 2024, Jones published her first children’s book, Luke Learns, inspired by her passion for broadening representation in children’s literature and fostering early conversations about respect, service, and the value of all career paths.
• Born in Chicago, Jones earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Illinois State University and her Master’s degree in Public Affairs from University of Illinois Springfield. She lives in the greater Orlando area with her husband and their three young children.