Charleston, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
The Post and Courier has introduced the Journalism Preservation Society to bolster local journalism support, debuting with the ‘Charleston Porch Talks’ series. The inaugural event, featuring author Elin Hilderbrand, is set for September 18, with another talk by Craig Johnson on September 30. Public ticket sales start on August 27, and proceeds will support the newspaper’s investigative journalism fund, reinforcing the critical role of journalism in the community.
Charleston, South Carolina – The Post and Courier has announced the launch of a new initiative called the Journalism Preservation Society, aimed at strengthening community support for local journalism. Kicking off with the “Charleston Porch Talks” speaker series, this initiative will focus on fostering public service and investigative journalism within the region.
The inaugural event of the Charleston Porch Talks series is scheduled for September 18, 2025, featuring bestselling author Elin Hilderbrand, known for her captivating Nantucket-themed novels, including “The Perfect Couple,” which was adapted into a Netflix series. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear Hilderbrand discuss her collaborative writing project with her daughter, Shelby Cunningham. Following this event, Craig Johnson, renowned author of the “Longmire” mystery series, will speak on September 30, 2025. Both events will take place at the College of Charleston’s Sottile Theatre, located at 44 George Street.
Public ticket sales for these events will commence on August 27, 2025. Individuals interested in early access to tickets can find details on charlestonporchtalks.com or contact [email protected]. Proceeds from the speaker series will contribute to The Post and Courier’s Public Service & Investigative Fund, which is dedicated to sustaining critical journalism efforts in South Carolina. This includes initiatives such as the Education Lab and Rising Waters Lab.
The Journalism Preservation Society itself is designed to be a membership-driven organization that emphasizes the importance of quality journalism as a community asset. Members will enjoy perks such as priority access to events and reserved seating, underlining the society’s mission to cultivate a supportive environment for investigative journalism.
Kalyn Oyer, the features editor for The Post and Courier, brings her passion for local culture as a music photographer and concert enthusiast to the table as part of this initiative. This collaborative community effort signals a commitment to preserving journalism’s role in informing and engaging the public on vital issues.
The Charleston Porch Talks series aims not only to connect readers with notable figures in the cultural community but to elevate the standard of journalism in the region, reaffirming the value it holds for residents and stakeholders alike. In emphasizing deep connections between journalists and the community, the series seeks to enhance awareness of pressing local and national concerns.
Supporting Journalism in South Carolina
As traditional journalism industries face challenges, the launch of the Journalism Preservation Society represents a proactive approach to ensure that vital stories are told. By investing in public service and investigative journalism, the initiative acts as a bulwark against misinformation and supports efforts geared towards accountability and transparency in government and business.
Event Details
| Event | Date | Featured Speaker | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inaugural Talk | September 18, 2025 | Elin Hilderbrand | College of Charleston, Sottile Theatre |
| Second Talk | September 30, 2025 | Craig Johnson | College of Charleston, Sottile Theatre |
By engaging with thought leaders and artists, the “Charleston Porch Talks” aims to enrich journalists and readers in South Carolina, promoting not only awareness of local stories but also emphasizing the community’s role in supporting and preserving journalism’s future.
FAQ
- What is the Journalism Preservation Society?
A membership-driven community supporting public service and investigative journalism in South Carolina.
- What is the purpose of the “Charleston Porch Talks” series?
The series connects readers with cultural leaders while promoting quality journalism.
- When does the first event take place?
The inaugural event is scheduled for September 18, 2025.
- Who is the featured speaker at the inaugural event?
Bestselling author Elin Hilderbrand will be the featured speaker.
- Where are the events held?
Both events will take place at the Sottile Theatre in Charleston.
- How can I purchase tickets?
Public ticket sales begin on August 27, 2025, with early access details available on the official website.
- What will the proceeds from the series support?
Proceeds will benefit the Public Service & Investigative Fund to sustain critical journalism initiatives.
- How will members of the Journalism Preservation Society benefit?
Members will enjoy priority access to events and reserved seating.
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Additional Resources
- Editor & Publisher: Journalism Preservation Society
- Post and Courier: Charleston Porch Talks Series
- Southern Thing: Charleston Porches
- Google Search: Journalism Preservation Society
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina

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