Alyssa Katz Takes the Helm as Editor-in-Chief of The Forward

Alyssa Katz Takes the Helm at The Forward

Alyssa Katz has been appointed the new Editor-in-Chief of The Forward, marking a significant shift in leadership for the nation's premier Jewish publication. Announced on December 15, 2025, by Publisher and CEO Rachel Fishman Feddersen, Katz's tenure is set to commence in January 2026. This announcement comes at a time when the dynamics of Jewish identity and safety are under considerable scrutiny, and her editorial guidance is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing these pressing issues.

Katz, an award-winning journalist, has been a prominent figure at THE CITY since 2019, transitioning from Deputy Editor to Executive Editor. Throughout her tenure, she has overseen an investigative reporting team focused on critical areas like labor, housing, politics, and social services. Notably, she has led impactful projects and collaborations with notable organizations such as ProPublica and the Guardian, showcasing her commitment to transparent and thorough journalism.

In her own words, Katz expressed her enthusiasm for joining The Forward: "I am thrilled and inspired to be joining the Forward to provide editorial leadership at this critical moment. In a world that continues to test Jewish safety, identity, and values, the Forward celebrates what makes us who we are while taking a critical journalistic eye to our challenges."

Katz's impressive background extends beyond her current role. She has served in various editorial capacities at respected publications like the New York Daily News and The Village Voice. Her contributions to journalism go beyond reporting as she has also authored insightful books, including The Influence Machine: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Corporate Capture of American Life and Our Lot: How Real Estate Came to Own Us. Her academic endeavors include teaching journalism at universities such as New York University and Brooklyn College.

As an active community member, Katz has been involved at the East Midwood Jewish Center in Brooklyn, NY, and has advocated for preserving Jewish historic memory in Warsaw, Poland. Her passion for the Jewish community deeply aligns with the mission of The Forward, a publication that has stood as a bastion of Jewish journalism for 128 years, focusing on the intersection of Jewish life and broader societal issues.

Feddersen remarked on Katz’s appointment with pride, acknowledging her strong editorial skills and her ability to manage a nonprofit newsroom effectively. "She brings formidable journalistic expertise as an editor and reporter, as well as deep experience managing an ambitious nonprofit newsroom... She has produced groundbreaking work that demonstrates courage, accountability, and integrity — the same values on which the Forward was founded and upholds today," Feddersen stated.

With a monthly readership exceeding 1.5 million, The Forward occupies a vital place in Jewish media, noted for its compelling coverage across various topics related to Jewish culture, history, and current events. The publication, often regarded as the leading voice among Jewish media outlets in America, is recognized for its independent perspective and robust investigative journalism.

Katz's leadership is anticipated to enhance The Forward's role as a critical platform for Jewish discourse, with goals to tackle contemporary issues while honoring the traditions and values that define Jewish identity. As she steps into her new position, her vision for the future of Jewish journalism will undoubtedly shape the path forward for The Forward and its dedicated readership.

The Forward's range of newsletters and online journalism continues to engage a diverse audience, ensuring that the publication remains relevant in an ever-changing media landscape. As Katz embarks on this new journey, she is poised to further solidify The Forward's standing as a cornerstone of Jewish media in America.