A banner year for MSR publisher continues
In an inspiring celebration of leadership and community impact, Tracey Williams-Dillard, CEO and publisher of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR), was recognized among ten esteemed recipients of the Minneapolis St.Paul Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs award on September 25. This honor acknowledges influential leaders who drive positive change and shape the future of Minnesota through their professional and community endeavors.
Tracey Williams-Dillard stands out not only for her leadership but also for her rich heritage as a third-generation publisher of the state’s oldest Black business and one of the nation’s oldest Black-owned newspapers. This year also marks a significant milestone for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder as it celebrates its 90th anniversary of continuous operations—a testament to the enduring legacy of journalism that prioritizes equity, representation, and community engagement.
Reflecting on what leadership means to her, Williams-Dillard articulated a philosophy that combines courage, vision, and resilience: “To me, leadership means having the courage to create a vision, the determination to execute it, and the resilience to allow trial and error as part of growth. True leadership also requires assembling the right team and empowering them to align with that vision.” Her insights resonate deeply, particularly in an era where adaptive leadership is essential for success in the ever-evolving media landscape.
The award ceremony held at the Minneapolis Renaissance Hotel was a gathering of influential leaders featuring an impressive array of honorees, including Todd Archbold of PrairieCare, Amy Ronneberg of NMDP, Brian Ryks of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, Tim Baylor of JADT Cos., Simone Xavier of Sigma Enterprises, Ken Smith from District Energy St. Paul, Patricia Chinander of Love From USA Group Inc., Margaret Murphy of Bold Orange Co., and David Saber of Park Financial Group Inc. Each leader is distinguished by their commitment to excellence in their respective fields, coupled with a dedication to community service and improvement.
Since the awards were launched in 2016, the “Minneapolis-St. Paul Business Journal” has aimed to recognize chief executives who significantly impact the state through their professional accomplishments and their engagement in local communities. This year’s honorees embody this mission, demonstrating how effective leadership can inspire change and uplift others.
With Williams-Dillard at the helm of the MSR, the publication has continually demonstrated a commitment to empowering voices and narratives that often go unheard. Under her stewardship, the newspaper has not only survived the tumultuous waters of the media industry but has also thrived, adapting to the digital age while maintaining its mission to serve the Black community in Minnesota.
In her acceptance speech, Williams-Dillard emphasized the importance of collaboration and community-building, stating, “As I look across the room, I see current partners in this quest for continuous growth and positive change. I look forward to connecting, building relationships, and fostering new partnerships with many of you as we continue to expand our impact and legacy together.”
This forward-thinking mindset highlights Williams-Dillard’s belief that collective effort is crucial for sustained progress and that true leadership involves guiding others and fostering an environment where diverse voices can contribute to a shared vision.
The role of Black-owned media in promoting equity and representation in journalism cannot be overstated, particularly in today’s climate of heightened awareness around social justice and equity. Williams-Dillard’s leadership is a benchmark for aspiring journalists and business leaders alike, showcasing how integrated community involvement is essential to shaping narratives that reflect an entire society.
As the MSR heads into its 90th year, the publication’s exciting legacy intertwines with Williams-Dillard’s vision for future growth—one that encompasses not only preserving history but also creating pathways for the next generation of leaders and journalists. Recognitions like the Most Admired CEOs award serve as reminders that the work of leaders like Tracey Williams-Dillard is vital, not only in their immediate circles but as part of a larger movement towards inclusivity and transformation in the media landscape and beyond.
As Minnesota looks toward a culture of smart business leadership, the impact of these 10 leaders will undoubtedly inspire others to strive for excellence and to prioritize community and collaboration, ensuring that “a better tomorrow” is not just a vision but a lived reality from the top down.
