Edward Fitzpatrick, who has been The Providence Journal’s political columnist since 2008, is leaving to become the director of media and public relations for Roger Williams University.
The change is effective October 5.
“We recognized that we needed a strong and unimpeachable voice to carry the message that RWU is building the university the world needs now, through a set of programs and initiatives quite unlike what people have historically expected from universities,” Roger Williams President Donald J. Farish said in a statement. “I can think of no better or more respected person to deliver that message than Ed Fitzpatrick.”
Fitzpatrick said that while he’s aware of the changes remaking the newspaper industry, his main reason for changing jobs is because he’s been impressed by initiatives at Roger Williams University. “I see it as a great opportunity,” he said, pointing to the university’s Providence campus and efforts involving affordable housing and political participation by Latinos.
Fitzpatrick said he will divide his time between RWU’s Bristol and Providence campuses.
His departure comes as the ProJo’s owner, GateHouse Media, is implementing buy-outs throughout its newspaper holdings. Four people from the Journal’s newsroom — Jim Donaldson, Channing Gray, Tony LaRoche, and Bob McNamee — have signed up to take to the buyout. It remains unclear if GateHouse will seek additional cuts at this time.
Fitzpatrick took over the political columnist role played by M. Charles Bakst, after Bakst took a 2008 buyout under previous management at the ProJo.
While the Journal has faced cuts for close to 15 years, the pace and scope of change has accelerated under GateHouse, as seen by the recent re-assignment of longtime Statehouse reporter Katherine Gregg away from Smith Hill.
In a statement distributed by RWU, Fitzpatrick said, “I’ve been watching a compelling story unfold at Roger Williams University, and I am looking forward to being part of this ambitious effort,” Fitzpatrick said. “Far from the ivory tower, the University is meeting Rhode Islanders where they live – in places such as Central Falls and Pawtucket. As a native Rhode Islander, I find that approach inspiring. As a journalist who has chronicled the state’s challenges over the years, I find that approach most welcome.”
Fitzpatrick grew up in Greenville and worked at newspapers including the Hartford Courant and Albany Times Union before joining the ProJo as a reporter about 16 years ago.
John Marion, executive director of Common Cause of Rhode Island, was typical among those reacting to word of Fitzpatrick’s exit from Fountain Street: “While I’ll miss the strong voice for good government, very happy for my friend @FitzProv,” Marion tweeted. “Congrats, Ed!”
This post has been updated.
