The Idaho Press has named Holly Beech as managing editor. Beech, 30, has served as assistant editor since November of 2017. She got her start with the Idaho Press as a business reporter in 2011 after graduating from Northwest Nazarene University with a journalism degree.
“I’ve had the pleasure of watching Holly grow from rookie reporter to a key leader in our newsroom,” said Idaho Press publisher Matt Davison. “She is outstanding at what she does, and I’m confident she’ll help take us to the next level.”
Beech grew up in Nampa reading the Idaho Press (then Press-Tribune). As a young kid, “reading the paper” mostly meant skipping to the comics section and perusing the Sunday ads, but as she got older her interest in writing and journalism grew.
“I still remember the day my little ‘Citizen of the Month’ photo made it into the paper in sixth grade — I was so excited,” Beech said. “The news business has changed a lot since then, but the paper hasn’t lost its ability to connect people in a really cool way. And beyond that, I continue to learn so much every week from our reporters’ deep dives. It’s humbling to be able to lead this team.”
Beech’s desire to be a newspaper reporter was planted in 10th grade when a reporter visited her class.
“I always loved writing, but I pictured that as a lonely career,” Beech said. “When the reporter talked about her adventures and the people she got to meet and interview, I was so inspired. I went up to her after class and asked if I could shadow her. And, cool enough, she agreed.”
In 2013, Beech helped launch the Idaho Press’ weekly newspaper, the Meridian Press, to cover an area that lacked specific local coverage. She reported for the Meridian Press for five years — minus a six-month stint in South Africa — before becoming assistant editor.
The Idaho Press has a rich history in Canyon County — with roots dating back to 1883 in Caldwell — and within the past two years has expanded its coverage and delivery area to include Ada County. The paper has grown its news team, including the addition of well-known state reporter Betsy Russell, and has partnered with BoiseDev.com and KTVB Channel 7. The Idaho Press also launched The Latino Card, a podcast on Latino affairs in Idaho.
“We’re part of a thriving conversation,” Beech said, “one focused on uncovering local issues, deepening understanding, and building empathy.”
Beech, who has been serving as interim managing editor since Aug. 13, starts in the new role immediately. You can reach her at hbeech@idahopress.com and follow her @HollyABeech.
