Jessica Roberson
Anacortes
Summary
Communications and editorial leader with a strong track record in transforming complex information into accessible content for diverse audiences. Expertise in managing concurrent projects and deadlines, ensuring high-quality print and digital publications. Recognized for award-winning designs and excellence in public-interest journalism.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Editor
South Whidbey Record
Whidbey Island
01.2017 - Current
- Oversee editorial content, publication planning and production.
- Manage content development across print and digital platforms.
- Edit, proofread and format content from multiple contributors.
- Coordinate special publications and community-focused projects.
Editor
Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor
01.2016 - Current
- Lead editorial planning, content development, editing and production for a multi-platform community newspaper serving Island County.
- Develop, edit and publish complex content involving government, infrastructure, transportation, environmental permitting, public safety and legal matters.
- Manage multiple concurrent projects and strict publication deadlines.
- Coordinate workflow among reporters, freelance contributors, photographers and production staff.
- Translate technical, legal and regulatory information into clear, accessible public communications.
- Manage freelancer budgets and coordinate newsroom resources.
- Produce page layouts, graphics and visual presentations using Adobe InDesign.
- Ensure accuracy, consistency and compliance with editorial standards.
- Maintain relationships with government agencies, public officials, community stakeholders and subject matter experts.
Editor
Whidbey Crosswind
Whidbey Island
01.2013 - Current
- Direct editorial planning and production for regional publication.
- Manage deadlines, workflow coordination and publication quality.
Co-Editor / Assistant Editor / Staff Reporter
Whidbey News-Times
Oak Harbor
01.1999 - 01.2017
- Advanced through reporting and editorial leadership roles, enhancing team capabilities and content quality.
- Covered courts, criminal justice, local government, land-use planning, environmental reviews, transportation projects, and public policy, contributing to comprehensive community reporting.
- Researched and analyzed legal filings, court records, technical reports, and government documents to inform accurate and impactful reporting.
- Produced enterprise stories requiring extensive document review and stakeholder interviews.
- Developed expertise communicating complex information accurately and clearly.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English
Carleton College
Northfield, MinnesotaSkills
- Editing & Proofreading
- Proposal & Technical Writing
- Strategic Communications
- Publication design
- Publication Design
- Document Production
- Editorial Analysis
- Content Strategy
- Editorial Policy
- Visual Storytelling
- Government & Public Affairs
- Regulatory communications
- Transportation reporting
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Google Workspace
- Content Management Systems
- AP Style
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Visual Storytelling & Layout
Professional References
Available upon request.
Professional Byline
Jessie Stensland
Major Coverage Areas
- Transportation Infrastructure
- Public Works Projects
- Wastewater Utilities
- Environmental Permitting
- Land Use & Planning
- Local Government
- Public Safety
- Economic Development
- Ports & Maritime Issues
- Regulatory Compliance
Selected Professional Recognition
- Multiple Washington Newspaper Publishers Association awards for page design, layout and visual presentation.
- Recognized for excellence in news presentation, publication design and visual storytelling.
- Produced award-winning print products while consistently meeting publication deadlines.
Accomplishments
- Named Writer of the Year four times by Washington Newspaper Publishers Association
Timeline
Editor
South Whidbey Record
01.2017 - Current
Editor
Whidbey News-Times
01.2016 - Current
Editor
Whidbey Crosswind
01.2013 - Current
Co-Editor / Assistant Editor / Staff Reporter
Whidbey News-Times
01.1999 - 01.2017
Bachelor of Arts - English
Carleton College