An American journalist, writer, and media consultant known for his leadership in journalism innovation. He has served as a consultant and former vice president at the Knight Foundation, helping expand its journalism and media initiatives.

From 2015 to 2020, he was Innovation Chief at Arizona State University’s Cronkite School, driving new strategies at its multiplatform newsroom. Newton began his career at the Oakland Tribune, eventually becoming managing editor during its Pulitzer-winning years.

He was also founding managing editor of the Newseum and the first president of the First Amendment Project. Newton has received numerous honors, including a Peabody Award and multiple First Amendment recognitions.