Letter from the editor: a time of transition
Photo by David Pierini
Dear community,
It is with hope, excitement, and a bit of grief that I announce that I will be transitioning out of my role as editor and publisher of North News in the coming months to assume the role of Policy and Advocacy Director at Pillsbury United Communities.
This will be a new body of work for the agency, and I look forward to working from the grassroots to government, collaboratively enacting a progressive policy agenda. We’ll be specifically seeking to address and dismantle the racial disparities that persist in our city, county and state.
Leaving North News isn't a decision I've come to quickly or lightly, especially in this moment of global coronavirus uncertainty and anxiety. I've been in my role here for more than four years. I know how important a present and consistent news source is for this and all communities. But, I'm convinced that it's time to create space for someone with new and different perspectives to lead North News, and that I will be able to be most impactful as a leader in my new role.
As I imagine the changes to come, I am also reflecting on the past four years and feeling immense gratitude for all the life-changing moments I’ve experienced in this role. Among the many, many memories are:
Connecting with 100-year-old sisters, Florence Timmerman and Jessie Johnson, at their home in Folwell.
Working alongside the Trauma Troopers, Nikki McComb, and Desralynn Cole to amplify the wisdom of the city’s youth.
Being with community on Plymouth Ave. alongside Chanda Smith Baker the day Mike Freeman announced his verdict in the Jamar Clark case.
Conducting an interview with photographer Azhae’la Hanson, while standing up on the back of a moving golf cart in Theodore Wirth Park.
Reporting with Cirien Saaeh on election night 2017.
Meeting Mauri Friestleben in 2016 and learning how love in leadership can be transformative.
Cheering for the Polars at all of the state basketball tournaments at the Target Center, and seeing our North High student journalists hard at work on the sidelines.
Getting to work alongside one of MPS’ most caring, giving, and competent teachers: Sam Wilbur.
Partnering with Melissa Townsend and MPR News to produce this in-depth piece about the Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment process.
Eating several chicken salad sandwiches from Sammy’s each week.
FLOW!
Collaborating with David Pierini—a brilliant photographer, storyteller, and friend—nearly every day.
Following in the footsteps of—and forging a friendship with—Margo Ashmore.
I deeply value the relationships that have come into my life through this work, and I look forward to stretching and strengthening them in new realms as I explore my new role. We have built a powerful platform for journalism to be taught, created, and disseminated together, and I look forward to supporting its next chapter. I'm working with PUC’s leadership to coordinate an effective succession plan, and our goal is for you to feel this transition as little as possible. I will remain in my current position until a new North News editor is in place.
If you are interested in leading North News into the next era of its long and storied life in North Minneapolis, apply here.
I’m honored to have served you all in this role, and I’ll forever hold the responsibility of your trust.
Take care,
Kenzie O’Keefe, Editor & Publisher, North News