Islands’ Sounder editor Colleen Armstrong has been promoted to the position of associate publisher. She will keep her editorial duties, but take on the responsibilities of managing the Orcas Island office.

“I truly love my job at the Sounder, and I am thrilled to be taking on more responsibilities,” said Armstrong.

Marcia Van Dyke, who replaced long-time publisher Elyse Van den Bosch this spring, will remain publisher of the Islands’ Sounder, Journal of the San Juans, and Islands’ Weekly, which are all owned by Sound Publishing, Inc.

Van Dyke, who also serves as publisher for the Whidbey News-Times, the Whidbey Crosswind and the South Whidbey Record, plans to visit the Sounder office on a regular basis while Armstrong oversees daily affairs.

“I feel fortunate to have someone on staff at the Sounder with such talent,” Van Dyke said. “Colleen has proven to be a valuable asset to Sound Publishing and I am pleased she has accepted the position of associate publisher. She is one of those rare people in our industry who has a great handle on quality journalism and is naturally adept to the business side of newspapers – a good partner for any publisher!”

Lori Maxim, vice president of West Sound Newspaper Operations for Sound Publishing Inc., said, “Colleen is a shining star in our company. She is a smart business woman who knows how to motivate and lead a team. Her positive energy and enthusiasm for community involvement make her a great addition to our management team.”

Armstrong managed the Islands’ Weekly on Lopez for five years before moving to Orcas in 2008 to become the Sounder’s editor.

“After moving to Orcas, I realized this was the island I am meant to be on,” she said. “I am blessed with an incredible staff, and I look forward to many more years here … Writing and designing the paper are so enjoyable for me, I feel lucky I can keep doing that in addition to learning new tasks.”

The Sounder staff is equally glad to have Armstrong as their new boss – sales associate Cathi Brewer described Armstrong as a “young maverick phenomenon getting a well-deserved promotion.”

“I’m very pleased with Colleen’s promotion to associate publisher,” said circulation manager Gail Toombs. “She will do well, as she always has.”