Phil Ammann
Former Detroit Free Press editor Shelly Darby is the new managing editor of the Palm Beach Daily News.
Darby replaces Elizabeth Clarke, who became the Daily News’ editor in September 2014.
A Wheeling, Ill., native, Darby worked for nearly two decades at the Free Press, starting October 1995. Previously, she was sports copy editor at the New Haven (Conn.) Register for two years.
During her time at the Free Press, Darby was assistant editor/high school sports, editor of the weekly Community Free Press section and was editing coach for print, online and social media content. As sports editor, the Associated Press Sports Editors recognized Free Press as a top 10 Sunday section.
Darby earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas in 1993.
“Shelly brings a fresh perspective and strong journalism skills to the Shiny Sheet,” Clarke told Daily News staff writer David Rogers. “With her leadership, editing expertise, digital knowledge and community news background, our local reporting on all platforms will continue to grow in depth. We’re excited that Shelly has joined our team.”
“Newspapers need to connect with readers on all platforms, regardless of whether the paper is in a small town or a big city,” Darby said of her Florida opportunity. “Papers of all sizes need big, new ideas to keep making those connections.
“I think that’s what an outsider like me can offer.”
