Michael Murray

Michael Murray joined The Beacon staff as editor in October 2024 and was promoted to editor in chief of an expanded staff in August 2025. When The Beacon received the first Michigan Press Association awards in its history in 2025, Murray earned first place in sports writing and third place for page design. The newspaper received 14 awards overall, including second place for Newspaper of the Year. 

Murray also serves as managing editor of Marquette Monthly. During his nearly 30-year career, he has worked in a wide range of publishing settings, including daily and weekly newspapers, magazines, trade and nonprofit publications, online news outlets and book editing. His work has been recognized by regional and national press associations. A Marquette County native, Murray holds two degrees from Northern Michigan University: a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism and a master’s degree in English and writing.