Suggestions
Emily McCombs
Editorial Director, Parents
Professional Background
Emily McCombs is a highly accomplished Deputy Editor at HuffPost Personal, where she harnesses her extensive experience in personal essays to help shape and elevate compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience. Known for her innovative approach to online journalism, Emily has made a significant impact in the digital media landscape, particularly in the personal essay genre—a field she has been passionately involved with for over a decade.
Before her current role, Emily served as the Editorial Director for Parents at HuffPost, where she focused on creating relatable and informative content aimed at modern parents navigating the complexities of raising children in today's world. Under her guidance, the Parents section flourished, delivering timely articles and personal stories that empowered families.
Emily's expertise doesn't stop there; she was also the Executive Editor at Elite Daily, a platform known for its youth-oriented content. During her time there, Emily played a crucial role in honing the voice of the publication, ensuring each piece connected with the millennial audience in an authentic way. Her editorial acumen also shined brightly in her role as the Executive Editor at xoJane.com, a platform dedicated to women sharing personal stories and insights.
Earlier in her career, Emily served as the Managing Editor at AOL, where she navigated the evolving landscape of online media, helping to guide the platform through its transition into more personalized content curation. Her progression through these key editorial roles showcases her adaptability and leadership in an ever-changing industry.
Education and Achievements
Emily's academic background is rooted deeply in journalism, having earned both her Bachelor's degree and a minor in Gender and Sexuality Studies from the prestigious New York University (NYU). Her education provided her with a robust foundation in critical thinking, writing, and the exploration of social issues, which have informed her editorial decisions and storytelling techniques throughout her career.
At NYU, Emily not only studied Journalism and Dramatic Writing but also immersed herself in the complexities of gender and sexuality, which is evident in her thoughtful and inclusive approach to personal narratives. This academic grounding fuels her passion for amplifying diverse voices, particularly women's stories, in both her own writing and her editorial work at HuffPost.
Notable Achievements
- Influential Leader in Digital Media: As a founding editor of xoJane.com, Emily helped to create a pioneering platform that encouraged women to share their personal experiences and insights, significantly contributing to the conversation around women's issues and empowerment in media.
- Award-Winning Editor: Over her prolific career, Emily has received recognition within the industry for her work, reflecting her commitment to high-quality journalism and her ability to connect with readers through personal storytelling.
- Mentorship: In addition to her editorial responsibilities, Emily is known for her passion for mentoring emerging writers and editors. Her dedication to fostering new talent in the industry ensures that the next generation of journalists approaches storytelling with the same authenticity and depth that defines Emily's own work.
With her extensive experience and commitment to powerful narratives, Emily McCombs continues to make waves in the field of journalism, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of personal essays and online content.
