PMJA is delighted to name Elaine Clark as its 2026 Editor of the Year. Elaine is the news director of Salt Lake City's public radio station, KUER.

This award honors an individual in public media who not only shapes an extraordinary narrative, but also rises to the occasion in difficult times as an unwavering, supportive leader. Elaine is all that and more. She brings a razor-sharp wit, a focused strategic mind, and mad editing and note-taking skills to any situation — but more than that, she's a kind, generous manager who would go to the ends of the earth to make sure her staff thrives.

Elaine became KUER's news director in 2020, after years of producing the station's flagship talk show, RadioWest. A Hoosier through and through, she has shaped and built her career in the mountains and deserts of the West.

Leading Through an Extraordinary Year

2025 was not an easy one for Utah. In June, a protester was shot and killed at a "No Kings" protest in downtown Salt Lake City. A complicated legal case followed, and as KUER's assistant news director Caroline Ballard noted, "Elaine made sure we were there thoughtfully along the way."

The assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk in September brought the station's coverage to the international stage. The newsroom was short-staffed, but Elaine's dedication to quality and integrity came into sharp focus. As the newsroom broke stories, she coordinated coverage with the NPR network, worked alongside her reporters, and made sure the stories not only kept people informed but had heart and nuance — including a piece about unexpected helpers in the chaos of the shooting's aftermath.

She steps to the hosting mic when no one else is available, works weekends to make sure the audience gets critical information when it matters most, and understands the people she covers with the same nuance and respect she brings to her staff: with unwavering support and a perspective-keeping wit.

Beyond the Newsroom

And if you ever want to be truly delighted, ask her about her metal detecting skills and her love of 19th century newspapers and census records.