Susan Hassler named Publisher of Lakeville Journal and Millerton News

Susan Hassler, a longtime magazine editor and resident of Sharon, has been appointed chief executive officer of The Lakeville Journal Foundation and publisher of The Lakeville Journal and The Millerton News.

Hassler succeeds Janet Manko, who, for more than 25 years, has been a mainstay at the two newspapers, serving as editor-in-chief and publisher.

Hassler has been a full-time resident of Sharon since 2004, and with her husband, Bob Maxwell, raised two boys who attended preschool in the region followed by Indian Mountain School. Hassler currently serves as vice president of the board of trustees of The Hotchkiss Library in Sharon and is a member of the Salisbury Congregational Church.

Speaking of The Lakeville Journal and The Millerton News, Hassler said: “I am very grateful for the opportunity to make sure that our local newspapers continue to flourish and grow. Our communities depend upon them.”

Hassler is stepping down as editor-in-chief of IEEE Spectrum Magazine. She has more than 20 years experience as an editor and journalist covering scientific and technical topics ranging from neurobiology to computer engineering. During her tenure at Spectrum, the magazine won numerous awards, including a National Magazine Award for General Excellence in the Thought Leadership category. 

IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. 

Manko, who began her career at the Journal on the production side in the early 1990s, was appointed associate publisher 25 years ago this month. After more than two decades at the helm when the climate for community journalism was put to the challenge, she is stepping aside. 

Noreen Doyle, chair of The Lakeville Journal Foundation board, said,  “Since Janet’s retirement announcement in October, the board has conducted a search to find a successor — large shoes to fill.  

“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Hassler. For the past 20 plus years Susan managed the editorial operations of IEEE Spectrum, the flagship magazine of IEEE.

“She has recruited and trained journalists, mainly in the field of science and technology, many of whom have gone on to become award-winning writers and editors.”

In an editorial, Manko wrote: “I feel the utmost gratitude for all that (Board) support and for the hard work of our stellar staff over the years. Now, looking forward to the next stage for The Lakeville Journal publications, I wish incoming CEO and Publisher Susan Hassler and all the new and ongoing staff the best, and continuing success in covering our vital towns in Connecticut and New York.” [Click to Read More]

The Lakeville Journal Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established in 2021, publishes The Lakeville Journal and The Millerton News and ­tricornernews.com, a website for both publications.