LoganSquarist

Role: Founder, Editor-in-Chief
Duration: 2011–2023
Focus: Hyperlocal media, community engagement, editorial leadership
Highlights: 1,300+ articles, 150+ events, 60K monthly readers, 75+ volunteers

A passion project that grew into a local legacy.

For more than a decade, I ran LoganSquarist—a hyperlocal media platform and neighborhood hub built to connect and inform the people of Logan Square, Chicago. What started as a small idea to share local stories evolved into a vibrant, award-winning community of readers, volunteers, and neighbors who cared deeply about where they lived.

How it started.

In 2011, I founded LoganSquarist as a passion project. My goal? Help people get to know the neighborhood better and feel more connected to it. With a background in journalism and digital content, I began covering hyperlocal news and events that weren’t being picked up elsewhere.

“Kate created something amazing in LoganSquarist. Not only did she build a vibrant platform, but she created space for others to grow and lead.”

— Melissa Hill, Community Manager

What we built.

Over 13 years, LoganSquarist grew into one of Chicago’s most recognized neighborhood publications:

✅ 1,300+ original articles published
✅ 150+ community events hosted
✅ 60K+ monthly website visitors
✅ 13K+ social followers
✅ 150+ volunteers mentored over time
✅ Featured by RedEye, Curbed, DNAinfo, Block Club, and more
✅ Recognized twice by Cook County Commissioner Luis Arroyo Jr., 8th District
✅ Named a Twitter handle to follow by RedEye

How we grew.

As publisher, I led the editorial vision, marketing strategy, volunteer operations and product evolution. Highlights included:

• Running a full WordPress/Gutenberg migration and rebranding initiative
• Developing editorial processes, tone and contributor guidelines
• Managing social media, SEO, email marketing and ad sponsorships
• Supporting dozens of aspiring writers, marketers, event planners and designers as they built portfolios and found their voice

A look at how LoganSquarist grew over time—from blog to brand to beloved neighborhood platform.

“Kate is a phenomenal editor and visionary. Working under her guidance was a turning point in my career.”

— Theresa Boehl, Editorial Director

Why it mattered.

LoganSquarist didn’t just tell stories—it created community. From monthly Neighbor Meetups to deep-dive profiles on small businesses, we helped people feel connected, represented and proud of their corner of Chicago. By socializing the neighborhood, we turned hyperlocal journalism into a shared experience.

It also shaped how I lead today: balancing storytelling with systems, passion with process and always putting people first.

Where it landed.

LoganSquarist sunset in 2023—a bittersweet close to a long-running labor of love. But the platform’s legacy continues to inform my work as a marketing strategist, brand builder and team leader.

Inspired by LoganSquarist or want to create something with similar heart and strategy? 👀 Give it a read.