Mission Statement:
Preserving the legacy of the Omaha Star Newspaper, fostering Black Media, and advancing African American history, culture, and contributions.

Vision:
A nationally recognized center for Black Media, heritage, and community engagement.

Core Values:

1. Preservation: We are committed to preserving and showcasing the rich history and legacy of the Omaha Star Newspaper.

2. Education: We believe in the power of education and information to promote understanding and social change.

3. Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate diversity and inclusion as fundamental principles in our work.

4. Community Engagement: We are dedicated to actively engaging with the community we serve.

5. Ethical Journalism: We uphold the highest standards of ethical media and accuracy.

Strategic Goals and Objectives:

Goal 1: Preserve and Promote the Legacy of the Omaha Star Newspaper

Objective 1: Digitize and catalog 100% of the Omaha Star Newspaper's archives (86 years) by the end of 2025. (COMPLETED)

Objective 2: Collaborate to locate an off-site preservation facility for physical archives.

Objective 3: Create a comprehensive online database accessible to researchers, educators, and the public.

Objective 4: Organize annual exhibitions showcasing:

• the newspaper's historical impact and contributions

• the timelines of Black media

• persons contributing to Black media

Objective 5: Restore the living quarters of Mildred D. Brown, founder of The Omaha Star Newspaper, which is located within the Omaha Star Museum.

Goal 2: Support the Omaha Star Newspaper

Objective 1: Enhance the quality and reach of the Omaha Star Community Newspaper by expanding its digital presence and circulation.
Objective 2: Develop partnerships with local educational institutions to provide media scholarships and internships. Objective 3: Implement sustainable revenue-generation strategies for long-term financial stability.
Objective 4: Engage with the community to ensure the newspaper remains a voice for local African American perspectives.

Goal 3: Establish the Omaha Star Institute: Focus: Black Media

Objective 1: Secure funding and resources to construct a dedicated museum space in the present location of the Omaha Star Newspaper
Objective 2: Develop interactive exhibits and educational programs highlighting Black media's history and impact.
Objective 3: Curate rotating exhibits on significant Black media.
Objective 4: Collaborate with schools to offer educational programs and field trips to the museum.

Goal 4: Advance Black Media Excellence

Objective 1: Create a Black Media Excellence Program to mentor aspiring Black media creators and provide professional development opportunities.
Objective 2: Host annual media symposiums, seminars, and workshops to promote best practices and networking.
Objective 3: Develop partnerships with media schools and media organizations to foster talent and innovation.
Objective 4: Launch a scholarship program to support Black media students and researchers.

Goal 5: Expand Community Engagement and Outreach

Objective 1: Establish an advisory board of community leaders, educators, and media creators to ensure community input and engagement.
Objective 2: Organize regular community events, lectures, and cultural celebrations.
Objective 3: Strengthen our online presence through social media and virtual events.
Objective 4: Collaborate with local organizations to address community issues through media and education.

2216 & 2218 North 24 Street
Omaha, Nebraska
Architects:  AO
General Contractor:  Blair Freeman

Omaha Star Institute

At the Omaha Star Institute, our mission is to support The Omaha Star Newspaper, an exceptional publication with an impressive 87-year history of uninterrupted publishing. The weekly paper is not only community-based but also enjoys national distribution. We have embraced the technology revolution by publishing digitally and maintaining a presence on multiple social media platforms. The Omaha Star Institute was established to enhance the ability of the Omaha Star to tell the story of the community and the world. Your donations are tax deductible according to the rules of the IRS.

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