Stars and Stripes Panel Discussion: At a Crossroads
Join the Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library for a Stars and Stripes panel discussion on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Doors open at 1:00 p.m., and the discussion begins at 1:30 p.m.
“Stars and Stripes at a Crossroads: A Conversation on Editorial Independence” brings together four panelists for their first shared conversation. They will explore the newspaper’s history, its current challenges, and its future serving the military community.
Why editorial independence matters
How does a newspaper report independently on the institution that funds it? What do service members need from their news sources? And how can military journalism earn and maintain readers’ trust?
These questions shape a discussion about freedom of the press, accountability, and access to reliable news. Veterans, military families, students, journalists, and community members are welcome.
Meet the four panelists
Max D. Lederer, Jr. is the former publisher of Stars and Stripes, an Army veteran, and a Bronze Star recipient. He joined the newspaper in 1992 and became publisher in 2007. Editor & Publisher named him its 2026 News Executive of the Year.
Capt. William “Bill” Urban is a U.S. Navy public affairs officer and military deputy to the publisher at Stars and Stripes. He brings a current leadership perspective on the newspaper’s mission and operations.
Dr. Cindy Elmore is a professor in East Carolina University’s School of Communication and a former Stars and Stripes reporter. Her research examines military journalism and the newspaper’s history of editorial independence.
Lucas Green is an Iraq War veteran, Southeast Missouri business owner, and candidate for Missouri House District 146. He served 11 years in the Missouri Army National Guard and brings a service member’s perspective.
Meet moderator Mark Horvit
Mark Horvit is a professor at the University of Missouri School of Journalism and director of its State Government Reporting Program. He also chairs the Journalism Professions faculty.
Previously, Horvit led Investigative Reporters and Editors. He worked as a reporter and editor for 20 years before joining the organization.
Reserve your seat
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Doors open: 1:00 p.m.
Panel begins: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Osage Centre, Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Admission: Tickets required
Reserve your tickets for the Stars and Stripes panel discussion
Your participation supports the museum’s work preserving military journalism and sharing service members’ stories through exhibits, research, and educational programs.
Questions? Contact info@nssml.org or 573-568-2055