Legendary Indiana publisher Scott Schurz, a past president of INMA and the association’s longest-serving member since 1969, died Monday following a recent stroke. He was 85.

Known through the global news industry for his wit and long-form storytelling skills, Scott was associated with South Bend, Indiana-based Schurz Communications since 1960 and its Hoosier Times subsidiary since 1966.

His INMA resume is unparalleled:

• Member since 1969.

• Global president in 1985-86.

• Silver Shovel Award recipient, 1988, for meritorious service to INMA. 

• Global treasurer in 1997-99 and 2001-03. 

He served on numerous INMA committees and boards in the 1970s before ascending to the International Board in the 1980s — ultimately serving as president.

In addition to his decades of service with INMA, Scott was involved with several key press associations serving the news industry: Newspaper Association of America, Newspaper Advertising Bureau, the NAA Foundation, WAN-Ifra, the Inter-American Press Association (SIP/IAPA), Inland Press Association, Hoosier State Press Association, International Press Institute, and World Press Freedom Committee, among others.

While his career was populated with many awards from press associations, he was especially known for his work on press freedom and young readers. 

Scott passed away Monday, May 24, in Belleair, Florida, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Kay, three children, and eight grandchildren.

For additional information on Scott:

• Schurz Communications obituary

• News Media Alliance statement

In the coming days, INMA will shine a light on Scott’s life and career, which can only be done via the stories and photographs of INMA members. We look forward to re-introducing Scott Schurz to today’s generation of INMA members.

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