Scripps alumna Blackwell Clark to lead Columbus Dispatch

Ohio University alumna Edwina Blackwell Clark has been named the next executive editor of the Columbus Dispatch, the first woman and person of color to lead the 150-year-old institution.

A 1984 graduate of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Blackwell Clark previously served as editor and publisher of newspapers in southwest Ohio, including the Middletown Journal and the Hamilton Journal News, and worked at the Dayton Daily News, as well, the Dispatch reported.

“I am extremely excited to join the amazing group of journalists at The Columbus Dispatch as we create the next chapter of journalistic excellence and innovation,” Blackwell Clark said. “I also look forward to engaging with the community so we continue reporting on the issues and people that make up Columbus and Central Ohio.”

Blackwell Clark has also worked as public relations director for Central State University, director of marketing and college relations at Rhodes State College, and as communications director for the Alzheimer’s Association of Ohio.

“We are extremely proud to have another one of our alumni leading one of the most important news organizations in the state of Ohio,” E.W. Scripps School of Journalism Director Eddith Dashiell said. “Edwina’s being named executive editor so soon after fellow journalism graduate Alan Miller's retirement as executive editor is another great example of the high quality of education and experiential learning our faculty provide.”

Blackwell Clark will start her new role June 27, replacing another OHIO alumnus, Alan Miller, who recently retired from the role.