Denise Lind in December was named the first woman general manager in The Daily News' more than 100-year history. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News)

For more than a century, The Iron Mountain Daily News has chronicled the stories of the Iron Mountain-Kingsford community. Now, in a historic first, Denise Lind has been named general manager — becoming the first woman to lead the publication in its more than 100-year history.

Lind also serves as advertising director, overseeing both the business and operational leadership of the newspaper. But her journey to this milestone began 15 years ago in a very different role. She started as a sales representative for the weekly shopper publication, The Iron Mountain ADvertiser.

Through steady determination, long hours and a deep commitment to local businesses, Lind worked her way up through the ranks of Ogden Newspapers. “I didn’t walk in the door as a manager,” Lind said. “I started in sales. I learned this business from the ground up — building relationships, understanding our advertisers, and understanding what makes local media work.”

Her growth within the company reflects years of dedication and loyalty. “I believe in hard work. I believe in showing up for your community,” she said. “Ogden Newspapers gave me opportunities, and I made the most of them. I’m proud of the path it took to get here.”

Since at least 1922, The Daily News has served the Iron Mountain-Kingsford area under its current title and predecessors. For Lind, leading a publication with that kind of legacy carries both weight and pride.

“This newspaper is part of people’s daily lives,” she said. “It’s where families see their kids in print. It’s where local businesses share their stories. It’s where our community stays informed. That responsibility means everything to me.” Having worked closely with advertisers and local business owners for more than a decade, Lind understands that a strong newspaper requires both journalistic integrity and business stability.

“Our local businesses are the backbone of this community,” she said. “Supporting them while protecting the integrity of our news product is a balance I take seriously.”

Her appointment also represents a milestone for women in leadership within the region.

“If my journey shows someone else that you can start anywhere and work your way up, then I hope that’s encouraging,” Lind said. “Leadership isn’t handed to you — you earn it.”

Under Lind’s direction, The Daily News enters a new chapter — one grounded in tradition, strengthened by experience and guided by someone who knows the publication from the inside out.

“I’m proud of where I started,” she said. “And I’m even more proud of where we’re going.”

Lind also serves as an ambassador for the Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce, helping connect local businesses and support community growth.

Outside of her professional life, Lind is a proud and devoted mother. She was actively involved throughout her son Evan’s school years, starting on day one by volunteering in his kindergarten class of 2022, serving as chair for fundraising events, organizing football team meals, and attending nearly every football game — including a memorable out-of-town match in Beloit, Illinois, where someone in the crowd famously yelled, “Evan, your mom’s here!”

Evan graduated as valedictorian and is on track to graduate in May from Northern Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and minors in military science and cybersecurity. He will commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army on May 2.

Lind’s daughter, Brooke Lyn, is also a source of pride. She will graduate from Niagara High School in the top five of the Class of 2026 and is currently dual-enrolled in a college dental assistant program through Bay College. Brooke Lyn is preparing for a career in dental hygiene while gaining hands-on experience as a dental assistant.

Lind is also a member of Redemption Hill Church and was recently baptized at age 51, marking a meaningful personal milestone in her faith journey.

Through both her professional and personal life, Lind exemplifies dedication, leadership, and commitment — whether in guiding a historic local newspaper, supporting local businesses, being actively involved in her community and family, or embracing her personal growth and faith.

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For more on International Women’s Day 2026, plus a contest to win one of two $50 bouquets made by two local women-owned businesses, go to two special pages on A8 and A9.