By JAN GRIFFEY/Editor

COLUMBIANA — Katie Cole McDowell has been named managing editor at Shelby County Newspapers Inc.

Shelby County Newspapers is the parent company of the Shelby County Reporter, Alabaster Reporter, Pelham Reporter, Shelby Living magazine and H Life – Hoover’s Magazine and associated websites.

McDowell will be responsible for day-to-day newsroom operations.

A Eufaula native, she earned her bachelor’s degree in English and master’s degree in journalism, both from the University of Alabama.

Prior to coming to work at Shelby County Newspapers in August 2011 as lifestyles editor, McDowell was managing editor of the Alexander City Outlook.

“Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for journalism excellence. She has been involved in every aspect of our news operation since coming to work here and has proven herself the perfect choice to lead our news team,” said Jan Griffey, associate publisher and editor.

Shelby County Newspapers President and Publisher Tim Prince said, “Katie will make our products better and in turn allow us to serve even more customers in more compelling ways. My hope and expectation is our customers will quickly recognize Katie’s impact on our products and the community.”