JOHN DAY – Marissa Williams has been promoted to publisher of the Blue Mountain Eagle.

Williams has been general manager of the newspaper since 2004.

John S. Perry, chief operating officer of the Eagle’s parent company, the East Oregonian Publishing Company, cited Williams’ accomplishments when he announced the change.

Perry noted that during her tenure, the Eagle has seen growth in advertising, subscribers and community relations.

“Marissa is an active community leader in Grant County and a terrific ambassador for our company,” he said.

In addition, Willliams has teamed up with editor Scotta Callister, who joined the staff in January 2007, to improve the quality of the news content, both in print and on the web.

Williams said in her new position, she plans to continue improving the Eagle, focusing on customer service and community connections that have been a hallmark of the newspaper’s long tenure in Grant County.

Williams moved back to John Day in 2002 after being employed at The Bend Bulletin, a daily newspaper serving Central Oregon. She is president of the Humbolt Elementary PTA and is part of the Ford Family Institute Leadership program. She resides in Canyon City with her husband, Zach, and their two children, Taylor and Drewsey.