Rochester named new Herald editor

Mark Rochester has been named The Herald’s new editor, succeeding Paul Osmundson, who rejoined The (Columbia) State in August.

Rochester, 51, had been deputy managing editor at The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, overseeing digital strategy and content, as well as investigations. Previously, he was assistant bureau chief for the Associated Press in San Francisco, covering California, Nevada and Hawaii; and held senior management positions at The Denver Post, Newsday and The Indianapolis Star. He also worked as a reporter at several newspapers.

Rochester, a native of Indianapolis who attended nearby Indiana University, served on the National Board of Directors of Investigative Reporters & Editors and is currently on the National Advisory Board of the Investigative Reporting Workshop at American University in Washington, D.C.

During his tenure in Pittsburgh, the Post-Gazette was cited by national industry groups and publications, including Editor & Publisher, for its digital innovation and online narrative storytelling projects. Watchdog journalism under his direction has resulted in state and federal legislation, regulatory changes and Congressional hearings.

“I conducted a nationwide search for The Herald’s editor and was delighted with the caliber of applicants who expressed interest, both from within our company and without,” said Debbie Abels, president and publisher of The Herald. “Mark brought to the table the perfect blend of strength in the traditional pillars of journalism – especially watchdog and investigative work – and multimedia and digital journalism, which is so important to our future.”

Rochester is married to Angela Spears, a public relations consultant. They have an 11-year-old son, Aidan.

“I’m thrilled about the opportunity to lead the award-winning staff of The Herald, which already does such a terrific job of covering breaking news, as well as sniffing out significant community issues of concern and writing about people and places that make Rock Hill unique,” Rochester said.

He will begin work at The Herald on Nov. 16.

This story was originally published October 22, 2015 at 2:27 PM with the headline "Rochester named new Herald editor."