Statesman Journal Welcomes Katie Livermore as New Public Safety Reporter
The Statesman Journal is thrilled to announce the appointment of Katie Livermore as its latest public safety and breaking news reporter. Livermore officially joined the team on August 8, 2026, at 5:30 a.m. PT, bringing a fresh and dedicated focus to critical criminal justice issues across Marion and Polk counties. Her role will be pivotal in informing the community about vital developments in public safety reporting.
Deep Roots and Academic Excellence
A native of Tualatin, Oregon, Livermore brings an advantageous combination of local understanding and an impressive academic background to her new role. Her roots in the state provide a foundational grasp of the communities she will serve, an invaluable asset for any public safety reporter.
Her academic journey at Oregon State University (OSU) was marked by significant achievements, showcasing a clear dedication to journalism. She graduated in March 2026, earning not one, but two bachelor’s degrees:
Creative Writing: This degree will undoubtedly enhance her ability to craft compelling narratives and insightful reports, making complex legal and societal issues accessible to a broad audience.
International Studies: Her background in international studies demonstrates a broad understanding of global contexts and diverse perspectives, which can inform her reporting on local issues with greater depth and nuance.
In addition to her dual degrees, Livermore also pursued a minor in applied journalism, further solidifying her practical skills and theoretical knowledge in the field. This comprehensive educational background positions her uniquely for the challenges of her new beat.
Leadership in University Journalism
During her tenure at OSU, Livermore distinguished herself through her leadership within the university’s student newspaper, the Daily Barometer. She served as the editor of the Daily Barometer from 2023 to 2024, a period that undoubtedly honed her journalistic instincts, editorial judgment, and ability to manage a newsroom.
Her tenure as editor provided her with invaluable hands-on experience in:
News Gathering: Directing reporters and overseeing story development from conception to publication.
Editing and Fact-Checking: Ensuring the accuracy, clarity, and quality of content, crucial for credible journalism.
Ethical Decision-Making: Navigating complex journalistic dilemmas and upholding journalistic standards.
Deadline Management: Producing timely and relevant news for the university community under pressure.
This practical experience in a dynamic news environment is critical for success in the demanding world of public safety reporting, where accuracy and timeliness are paramount.
Focusing on Criminal Justice in Marion and Polk Counties
As the new public safety and breaking news reporter, Katie Livermore will play a pivotal role in informing residents of Marion and Polk counties about critical developments in criminal justice. This beat typically involves:
Covering court proceedings and significant legal cases: Providing transparency into the judicial system.
Reporting on local law enforcement agencies and their activities: Examining policies, actions, and community engagement.
Investigating crime trends and their impact on communities: Identifying patterns and their societal implications.
Providing timely updates on breaking news events that affect public safety: Ensuring the public is quickly informed during emergencies.
Her work will be essential in keeping the public informed about issues that directly impact their daily lives, holding institutions accountable, and shedding light on the complexities of the justice system. The Statesman Journal looks forward to the depth and insight Katie Livermore will bring to these important stories, further strengthening the publication’s commitment to robust local journalism. Her diverse skill set, ranging from creative writing to applied journalism, positions her uniquely to cover these sensitive and critical areas with both accuracy and sensitivity.
