New reporter joins Valley News Herald

SPOKANE VALLEY - A new reporter joined the ranks of the Valley Herald on Sept. 11.

An Eastern Washington University graduate, Clare McGraw, 28, earned a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication Design in June 2022.

McGraw brings a background in photography, graphic design and web-editing.

"I'm really looking forward to utilizing my design skills.," McGraw said. "I also really enjoy writing about local people."

"I am looking forward to seeing what Clare can do with her camera gear," Managing Editor Matthew Stephens said. "Having a reporter that can add visual representation through photos helps tell the stories we write."

"It's nice to have an aspiring reporter on staff with the requisite computer skills for modern journalism," Owner/Publisher Roger Harnack said.

Prior to being hired, she was self-employed as a freelance graphic designer. Before that, she designed the mural for Eastern University's CSTEM building.

Clare moved to Cheney from Issaquah, Washington to attend college.

Her passion for design is what initially attracted her to the Valley Herald, as the software used to make newspapers is design-based.

As an amateur photographer, she is excited to get the chance to shoot photos as part of her job.

In her free time, Clare enjoys oil painting, watercolors, and drawing as well as Magic The Gathering.

McGraw is encouraging readers to send her news and story ideas.

She can be reached at [email protected].