MARY FORD
Author, Editor & Writing Coach
Mary Ford, Editor & Writing Coach
I am a subject-matter expert when it comes to editing. I have 35 years of experience in journalism, nearly 28 if those years as editor of two highly successful, community newspapers in Massachusetts, the Hingham Journal and the Cohasset Mariner.
During my 30 years as a newspaper editor, every type of submission imaginable crossed my desk. We encouraged community submissions, so I became expert at not only editing content, but working with the person writing the column, press release, or story to help make it shine.
In retirement, I enjoy using my skills to encourage, coach and help people of all ages with writing projects. Helping students craft their college essays is particularly rewarding.
I can provide another set of eyes on that important letter or thank you note; edit and proofread an essay or report, and provideadvice on content.
I am seeking freelance, part-time editing work providing help with letters, essays, press releases, copy editing, announcements, proofreading and more. I can meet deadlines and prefer to work remotely.
I am always ready for new projects
Get in touch and let’s talk!
Career Highlights
EDITOR
GATEHOUSE MEDIA NE FROM MARCH 1992 TO SEPTEMBER 2018
Edited two community newspapers in Massachusetts: the Hingham Journal and Cohasset Mariner. Responsibilities included managing two reporters, numerous freelancers and contributors, editing content, assigning stories, laying out pages, meeting deadlines, taking photos, managing Facebook pages and websites, and more.
OTHER EXPERIENCE
Currently editing college essays for College Planning Group, Inc., in Canton, Mass.
Taught English as a Second Language in Yokohama, Japan and Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Middle School teacher, Los Angeles, California
INTERESTING FACT
LIVED IN JAPAN, FRANCE AND ENGLAND.
STAFF REPORTER
MARINER NEWSPAPERS FROM FEBRUARY 1988 TO MARCH 1992.
Staff reporter for towns of Norwell and Hanover for the Mariner newspapers in Massachusetts. Responsibilities included covering local government and writing feature stories about local people, activities, businesses and programs.
CORRESPONDENT AND COLUMNIST
DAILY HERALD FROM FEBRUARY 1986 TO NOVEMBER 1987
News, feature writer and columnist for the Daily Herald, Arlington Heights, Illinois
BACHELOR OF EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI, CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA
“Words cannot express how much you have helped me grow both as a journalist and a person.”
Accolades
“Under Mary’s guidance The Hingham Journal and Cohasset Mariner have developed into two of the top weekly publications and websites in eastern Massachusetts.” More >>
“I will never forget that she was generous to me in a way that has profoundly shaped my life. Women don’t always have an easy time in the professional world where realities that can never be fully summed up by the #metoo movement still exist.” More >>
“Mary, as you transition to the next chapter of your life, you have much to be proud of. Your stewardship will be missed but not forgotten. Thank you.” More >>
“Thank you for all that you did to make me the journalist I am today. I learned so much from you as a reporter, editor, and person.” More >>
About Mary Ford
Author, Editor & Writing Coach
Mary Ford is a retired, award-winning journalist who spent twenty-eight years as the editor of two successful, small-town newspapers in Massachusetts. She met Conley in 1971 and has always been fascinated by his story. They live in Scituate, Mass. with their dog, George. This is Mary’s first novel.
Questions or Comments? Contact Mary here.
Boy at the Crossroads
Now available in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle ebook