Nebraska Press Association
Dennis DeRossett
Executive Director
dderossett@nebpress.com
As the Executive Director of the Nebraska Press Association since January 2020, Dennis DeRossett brings a dedicated commitment to the forefront of the state’s journalistic landscape. His role extends beyond the operational oversight of the association; Dennis is actively engaged in lobbying efforts on behalf of Nebraska’s newspapers at both the state and national levels.
Dennis is a seasoned newspaper publisher and association executive, with a career marked by influential leadership and a passion for the press. He was publisher of the Beatrice Daily Sun from 1990 to 1996, during which time he also served on the board of directors of the Nebraska Press Association. His expertise in publishing extends beyond Nebraska, having managed community newspapers in Ohio, Missouri, Oklahoma and Illinois.
The breadth of Dennis’s impact on the industry is further highlighted by his role as the Executive Director of the Illinois Press Association. Additionally, under a management contract, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of the National Newspaper Association, contributing to the growth and development of the press on a national scale.
Dennis is a leader and an advocate for the principles and values that define journalism. His strategic approach to association management and unwavering dedication to the industry make him a driving force in ensuring the vitality and relevance of Nebraska’s newspapers.
Jerry Raehal
Chief Growth Officer
jerry@onepressne.com
Jerry Raehal is the Chief Growth Officer for OnePress, the advertising and marketing agency of the Nebraska Press Association. He joined OnePress in June 2024, after serving as executive director of the Louisiana Press Association (LPA) and Louisiana Press Marketing (LPM).
Prior to his roles at LPA and LPM, Jerry held key leadership positions at the Glenwood Springs Post Independent in Glenwood Springs, CO, the Colorado Press Assn.(CPA) and Colorado Press Network (CPN) in Denver, CO, and the Laramie Boomerang and Rawlins Daily Times in Wyoming.
As Chief Growth Officer for OnePress, Jerry will be responsible for developing custom solutions for clients, driving revenue for OnePress, and providing coaching and training to NPA members.
Violet Spader
Member Services Director
vs@nebpress.com
Violet Spader brings a deep passion for journalism to her role as the Member Services Director for NPA. Joining the team in August 2012, Violet’s career began in the dynamic environment of Nebraska’s newspapers, where she has honed her skills in newsrooms and composition departments in Oklahoma and Nebraska since 2006.
Recognized as the 2008 Outstanding Graduate in Journalism/Public Relations from Concordia University, Violet’s commitment to journalism has been a consistent thread throughout her career. In March 2017, she assumed the pivotal role of OnePress Sales & Marketing Director and moved into Member Services in August 2024.
Violet is the go-to person for NPA members for information and resources, whether for events, ongoing education or industry connections.
Susan Watson
Member Services/Press Releases
nebpress@nebpress.com
Susan Watson has been an integral part of the NPA/OnePress team since May 2008, bringing with her an abundance of knowledge cultivated through over 20 years of advertising agency media and marketing experience.
In her role as the editor of the NPA Bulletin, Susan curates the weekly e-newsletter that serves as a pulse for NPA members, delivering timely and relevant updates. Her editorial prowess extends to overseeing the NPA Press Release Service, ensuring that the voice of Nebraska’s newspapers reaches far and wide.
At the heart of many key initiatives, Susan plays a central role in coordinating aspects of the Nebraska Press Association annual convention, where industry leaders converge to shape the future of journalism in the state.
Beyond the headlines, Susan takes charge of NPA Associate and Affiliate memberships/dues, embodying the spirit of collaboration that defines the association.