The Long Island Press proudly announces the promotion of Michael Patrick Nelson to editor in chief.
Nelson joined the Press at its inception in 2003 and has been a writer, columnist, senior editor and managing editor. He is also an adjunct professor of journalism at New York University, his alma mater. Prior to coming aboard the Press, Nelson was the senior music writer and managing editor of The Island Ear, a bi-monthly entertainment newspaper.
Nelson’s writing and editing skills have earned the Press multiple awards and accolades. His columns “The Nelson Ravings” and “Sonic Boom”—introspective commentary on the latest and not-so-latest trends, releases and personalities of music, pop culture, life and his own neuroses—have both been recognized with awards from the Society of Professional Journalists’ Long Island chapter.
Nelson, 35, is a natural editor. He possesses an eye for detail and a gift for bringing out the best in writers. Not just a skilled manager, Nelson is foremost a wordsmith. He is also a mentor. Perhaps his most recognizable trait is his confidence, which permeates as a sense of coolness.
Raised in Northport, Nelson possesses a depth of knowledge about Long Island that combined with his expertise of the craft, make Nelson’s an invaluable voice for all readers. He succeeds Robbie Woliver, who departed the Press in June.
“When our founding editor in chief left earlier this year I was very concerned,” says Press Publisher Jed Morey. “But my fears were quickly dismissed because Michael immediately stepped up to grasp the reins. No one knows the Press better than Michael and he has earned the respect of not only every reporter in the newsroom but everyone in our organization. We’re all excited about the Nelson era.”
Nelson currently lives with his fiancee, Jenn, and two very overweight cats.