Hello! I’m Lisa Neff, a journalist who loves to tackle stories that make a difference.
Currently, I work as a senior editor and environmental columnist at The Islander newspaper on Anna Maria Island in Florida.
I started my career as a reporter with daily newspapers in New Hampshire and Illinois, including Foster’s Daily Democrat and the Rock Island Argus.
After a yearlong adventure calling keno at the M&M Saloon in Butte, Montana, I returned to journalism with renewed energy as a regional editor at the St. Louis News-Telegraph, the area’s top LGBTQ paper.
In Chicago, I had the privilege of working at the pioneering Windy City Times as a reporter and an editor, followed by the incredible opportunity to become the founding managing editor of Chicago Free Press.
From there, I brought my expertise to Florida as a metro editor for The Herald in Bradenton before finding a good fit at The Islander. I’ve also had the pleasure of working remotely as managing editor for the award-winning Wisconsin Gazette in Milwaukee.
I’m honored to have received civic journalism awards for stories that sparked meaningful reform in public housing, minority relations at city hall and community policing. My work has been recognized by:
- New England Press Association
- Small Newspaper Group
- Northern Illinois Press Association
- Peter J. Lisagor/Society of Professional Journalists
- Florida Press Association
- Milwaukee Press Club
- Association of Alternative News Media
I earned my degree at Roosevelt University in Chicago.
Beyond traditional journalism, I bring extensive experience in social media management and creating original content for other digital platforms.
