The Society of Professional Journalists is dedicated to the perpetuation of a free press as the cornerstone of our nation and our liberty. To ensure that the concept of self-government outlined by the U.S. Constitution remains a reality into future centuries, the American people must be well informed in order to make decisions regarding their lives, and their local and national communities. It is the role of journalists to provide this information in an accurate, thorough, timely and clear manner.

It is the mission of the Society of Professional Journalists: to promote this flow of information; to maintain constant vigilance in protection of the First Amendment guarantees of freedom of expression; to stimulate high professional standards and ethical behavior in journalism; to foster excellence among journalists; to inspire successive generations of talented individuals to become dedicated journalists; encourage diversity in journalism; to be the broad-based membership organization for journalists; and to encourage a climate in which journalism is practiced freely.

The Iowa State branch of SPJ strongly encourages its member to reflect upon the more than two centuries of free-press tradition in this country. Toward that end, the ISU SPJ takes part in the annual Greenlee School First Amendment Day celebration. The organization also brings in speakers from the world of professional journalism and takes part in state, regional and national conventions.