ACES: The Society for Editing

As editors, we know our work improves clarity and readability, but proving that value to clients, employers, and stakeholders can be more difficult. Our next webcast explores new research on how readers perceive editing and what that means for our profession. On June 18 from 4-5 p.m. ET, Rachael Tin and Madeline Shaughnessy will present "Do Readers Care About Editing?: Recommendations for Editors from the ACES Value of Editing Research Study." Drawing from nearly 600 survey responses and more than 20 interviews, the presenters will share findings from the ACES-funded Value of Editing research study completed by Writing System Institute. This webcast is designed for editors looking for stronger ways to communicate the value of their work in conversations about quality, AI-assisted editing, client expectations, and professional positioning. This program is free for ACES members and $30 for nonmembers. Register today. Link in the comments.

Tracking Changes, ACES’ member-exclusive quarterly journal, is back with a new Spring 2026 issue. This relaunch issue explores change across the editing profession, from artificial intelligence and fact-checking to shifting client expectations, accessibility, style, and the value editors continue to bring to their work. Inside the issue, you’ll find essays, interviews, member perspectives, and reflections on what is changing, and what still matters most. Read the Spring 2026 issue of Tracking Changes. Link in the comments.

Nominations are now open for the Henry Fuhrmann Mentor Award, presented by ACES and Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA)-Los Angeles. The award honors a journalism mentor who has consistently guided, supported, and invested in others, continuing the legacy of longtime editor and mentor Henry Fuhrmann. Nominees may be anyone working in journalism, and membership in ACES or AAJA-LA is not required. You may nominate a mentor or nominate yourself. The recipient will receive a $1,000 award from ACES and AAJA-LA. Applications are open May 18 through June 15, 2026. To apply, submit: ✅ A resume for the nominee ✅ A 250–500 word statement on the nominee’s approach to mentoring ✅ Two letters from mentees, including contact information Link in the comments.

Somewhere, an editor has 47 tabs open.

This Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember those who gave their lives serving the United States. Wishing our community a meaningful and reflective Memorial Day.

The votes are in, and we're pleased to share the results of the 2026 ACES Board election. The following members were elected to officer positions for the 2026-2028 term: - President-Elect, Constance Brossa (will succeed to president in 2028) - Vice President for Governance, Maisha Maurant (reelected) - Vice President for Records, Samantha Enslen  - Vice President for Finance, Lauren Filippini The following members were elected to fill four at-large Board vacancies: - Amy Frushour Kelly (reelected) - Barbie Halaby (reelected) - Rumit Pancholi (reelected) - Jamaal Pittman Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s election and continues to support ACES and the editing community.

Strong headlines speak for themselves In the ACES Headline Contest, small teams of expert judges meticulously score headline portfolios. Winners and honorable mentions, along with judges’ comments, will be proudly displayed online after the September announcement at ACES VCON. This is more than just a contest; it's a platform for national recognition. Submit your outstanding headlines and let your talent shine. Your winning portfolio could inspire others and solidify your place among the best in the field. Learn more. Link in the comments.

Sometimes the best editing work happens beneath the surface.

We were thrilled to celebrate Jeanette Smith at ACES 2026: Atlanta as one of the first recipients of the Bill Connolly Rising Star Award. Jeanette is a line editor, copy editor, educator, and mentor who has worked on nearly 100 manuscripts across genres. Through presentations, courses, coaching programs, and her years as the Ask the Editor columnist for DIY MFA, she has helped writers and editors build stronger skills and greater confidence in their work. She shared her appreciation for the recognition: “Thank you, ACES, for such an incredible honor. Teaching has been a lifelong passion for me, but it only works because of the community on the other side. To everyone who attended a talk, commented on a post, took a course, or read a blog — you made this happen, and I am deeply grateful.” Named for founding ACES member and former ACES Education Fund president Bill Connolly, the award honors emerging editors who are making meaningful contributions to their organizations and the broader editing community. It was a joy to recognize Jeanette in person and celebrate everything she brings to the profession.

Have an editing topic you love talking about? Share your expertise with the community by proposing an ACES Academy webcast. Presenters are compensated, and sessions run about an hour, covering areas like core editing skills, language, the business of editing, and wellness in the editing world. It’s a chance to grow your voice, support fellow editors, and shape professional development across the field. You don’t need to be an ACES member to apply.  Learn more and send us your idea. Link in the comments!