The Beacon, an independent, nonprofit news network with newsrooms in Kansas City and Wichita, announces the appointment of Scott Canon as its first editor-in-chief. With his extensive experience in local journalism and a proven track record in growing news networks, Scott is poised to lead The Beacon’s editorial direction and advance its mission of developing an interconnected network of community-centered newsrooms serving Kansas and Missouri.
He expressed his enthusiasm about joining The Beacon.
“I am thrilled to play a part in The Beacon’s mission to provide smart, unbiased reporting to the people of Kansas and Missouri,” he said. “I look forward to working with our talented reporters to play the important role of public service journalism. We aim to shed light on the issues that matter in the health and well-being of Kansans, Missourians, and their communities.”
Canon’s career includes covering significant news events for The Kansas City Star, including the Oklahoma City bombing and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. For the past five years, Canon has led the Kansas News Service, a collaboration of newsrooms across Kansas, based at KCUR-FM, Kansas City’s National Public Radio affiliate.
Canon played a pivotal role in shaping the digital and audio presence of KNS, turning it into an award-winning nonprofit news organization and a trusted source of reliable information for Kansas communities. Canon’s expertise in overseeing reporters based around the state will be instrumental in expanding The Beacon’s impact as it grows.
As editor-in-chief, Canon will spearhead The Beacon’s coverage of issues that matter in people’s lives, with a strong focus on education, health and the impact of government. He will oversee the comprehensive editorial strategy of The Beacon, ensuring its alignment with the organization’s overall vision. He will provide guidance and support to local reporters and editors.
“Having someone of Scott Canon’s caliber leading our news operation will only strengthen the level of journalism we are able to do here in Wichita,” said Polly Basore Wenzl, who will remain editor of The Wichita Beacon.
Stephanie Campbell, The Beacon’s CEO, shared her excitement.
“I’ve been uncompromising, searching for my partner in this work. In Scott, we’ve identified the ideal combination of experience, commitment to nonprofit news, and exceptional mentoring skills, making him the perfect fit to lead and train the reporters at The Beacon,” she said. “The organization is incredibly fortunate to have someone of his caliber, and this opportunity will undoubtedly benefit all of the journalists who publish in The Beacon.”
Campbell joined the organization in January 2023 with a 15-year background in nonprofit leadership and a passion for social impact startups. With Scott Canon’s local news experience and a shared vision for community-focused journalism, The Beacon is poised to make significant strides in realizing its journalistic mission, securing national philanthropic support and enhancing the resources available for local news.
“We are thrilled to have Scott Canon join The Beacon as our first-ever editor-in-chief,” said Brittany Barrientos, chair of The Beacon’s board of directors. “His deep understanding of our region and extensive experience in editing and reporting make him the ideal leader for our news network. With Scott at the helm, we are confident we can bring high-quality, insightful journalism to our readers.”
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Stephanie Campbell
913-645-1983
About The Beacon: The Beacon is an independent, nonprofit news network with newsrooms in Kansas City and Wichita. Dedicated to community-centered journalism, The Beacon amplifies the voices of underrepresented populations and holds power accountable. The organization aims to create a more vibrant and healthy Kansas and Missouri by delivering impactful stories and meeting communities where they are. The Beacon is supported by The American Journalism Project, Wichita Foundation, Kauffman Foundation, and Arnold Ventures and more than a thousand individual contributors.
