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Erin Perry Named Editor-in-Chief of Outlier Media, Ushering in a New Era of Community-Centered Journalism

Detroit’s legacy of powerful community-centered journalism continues with Erin Perry’s appointment as Editor-in-Chief at Outlier Media. As a native Detroiter and experienced media leader, Perry stands ready to uphold the organization’s mission: delivering news that speaks to the heart of the community, the people of Detroit. This moment, both a reflection of the city’s deep-rooted media legacy and its future, comes as Sarah Alvarez, founder of Outlier Media, transitions out of the Editor-in-Chief role she has held since the organization’s inception.

Perry’s journey to this leadership position began when she joined Outlier Media in 2021 as Managing Editor. Bringing with her a wealth of knowledge rooted in both academic rigor and hands-on experience, Perry has spent years refining her craft in journalism administration and audience engagement. Her approach is a blend of storytelling and scholarship, ensuring that the work Outlier produces remains relevant to Detroit’s residents.

“I’m excited to lead Outlier Media as editor-in-chief, empowering residents of the city I love most. I’ve seen us grow from a small team to a vital resource in Detroit,” Perry shared. Her connection to the city runs deep, a critical component in her ability to foster the type of journalism that not only informs but uplifts. Perry’s commitment to balancing investigative rigor with community responsiveness is precisely what Outlier needs as it continues to serve Detroiters through innovative, accessible storytelling.

Since its founding, Outlier Media has distinguished itself by producing investigative journalism that directly impacts Detroit’s majority-Black population, focusing on the city’s most pressing needs. The newsroom listens to its community, providing essential information that residents might not otherwise access. Under Perry’s leadership, this mission remains at the forefront. She aims to deepen the organization’s ties to the community, continuing its work at the intersection of research-driven reporting and community engagement.

As Perry steps into this new role, she builds on the legacy laid by Sarah Alvarez. Alvarez, who will transition to Editor-at-Large, expressed full confidence in Perry’s ability to lead Outlier. “I knew from the moment I finished interviewing Erin for the role of Managing Editor that I wanted her to succeed me as Editor-in-Chief. I am thrilled she is choosing to use her talents and experience to lead Outlier’s editorial work,” Alvarez said. The shared vision between these two leaders speaks volumes about the continuity of Outlier’s mission and values.

Alvarez’s leadership has positioned Outlier Media as a unique force in Detroit’s media landscape. The focus on creating a media outlet by and for Detroiters, particularly for those who have often been left out of traditional media coverage, is what made Alvarez’s work groundbreaking. Now, as she steps aside from day-to-day leadership, her ongoing role will ensure that the transition remains smooth, allowing Perry to focus on continuing this impactful work.

Executive Director Orlando Bailey underscored the significance of Perry’s appointment, especially in a city like Detroit, where media representation is more than symbolic. It is essential to the city’s future. “Erin is a deeply respected, accomplished journalist in Detroit, with a passion for training and uplifting emerging journalists. In one of America’s largest majority-Black cities, it is crucial that we see ourselves not only in our stories but in our storytellers. I’m excited to work alongside Erin as we continue advancing Outlier’s mission,” Bailey shared.

Perry’s leadership comes at a time when media outlets across the country are being called to reexamine their priorities and values. In a media landscape that often overlooks the voices of Black communities, Outlier Media stands as a beacon of what is possible when journalists are committed to serving their audience fully and authentically. The next chapter for Outlier Media, under Perry’s guidance, is about cementing its role as a media organization that not only informs but transforms.

Erin Perry’s vision for Outlier Media is one where Detroiters have full access to the information they need, written by people who understand the city’s complexities and care deeply about its future. As the city evolves, so too will its media, and Perry’s leadership will ensure that this evolution is grounded in community, accountability, and a commitment to truth.

Outlier Media’s unique model—rooted in collaboration with residents and focused on their real-time needs—will continue to thrive under Perry. Her deep connection to Detroit’s cultural and social landscape, coupled with her expertise in journalism, makes her the right person to lead the organization into its next phase. The work is just beginning, and Perry’s leadership will be key in ensuring that Detroit’s stories are told by Detroiters, for Detroiters.

In an era where trustworthy journalism is critical, Outlier Media remains committed to being a source of reliable information, lifting up the voices of the community, and serving as a platform for the next generation of journalists. With Perry at the helm, Detroit can expect nothing less than journalism that continues to resonate with its people, speaking to both the present and future of the city.

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