The following excerpt was sent out from Editor & Publisher:
Bobby Allen Roach
The Chatham (Virginia) Star-Tribune has hired Bobby Allen Roach, accomplished journalism and communications professional, to lead the newsroom as editor.
Roach is well acquainted with the 154-year-old publication, having previously worked as a reporter and assistant editor from 2015 to 2016. Additionally, he interned with the newspaper in 2007 shortly after graduating from Tunstall High School. During his time at Tunstall, he held the position of editor in chief for the school’s yearbook, The Iliad, from 2006 to 2007.
Since his internship, Roach has earned a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and journalism and a master’s degree in business administration with a specialization in marketing, both from Averett University.
“I always like to mention that I first attended Danville Community College and transferred to Averett after earning my associate’s degree,” Roach added. “Community college is a great place to start your academic journey or even obtain training in professional skills such as cosmetology, nursing or welding.”
Roach has over a decade of experience in communications and journalism, and served as editor in chief of The Chanticleer, Averett’s student-run news magazine, from 2011 to 2012.
Roach has won 12 awards from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations, including the District 2 Rising Star Award in 2020 and multiple awards for photography and design.
He added that his focus in his first year as editor of the Star-Tribune will be on community connections.