The Tri-City Herald’s top editor recently received national recognition for her 41-year career in journalism. Executive Editor Laurie Williams was named to Editor & Publisher Magazine’s Masters of the Media 2025 list.  

She joined the Herald straight out of college in 1984 as a city beat reporter and rose through the ranks to the top spot in the newsroom. The Kennewick woman was nominated for her leadership skills, commitment to journalistic and publishing excellence, and ability to lead during challenging times.  

“Laurie is behind virtually every one of the awards the Herald has earned under her leadership. ... Laurie is 100% committed to news and being the voice for the Mid-Columbia. ... Laurie swings for the rafters – every day, every edition,” according to her nomination.  

Asked to reflect on her career to date and what brings her the greatest sense of accomplishment, Williams said it’s giving “readers information they would not have known about otherwise, especially when it holds an official accountable or reveals an injustice. I’m also incredibly proud of the stories we’ve done about inspiring, heroic and brave people in the community. I’m constantly amazed by my staff’s ability to pivot to deliver those stories in a whirlwind of constantly changing technologies and shifting public expectations.”