One-time 4H rivals have firmly established themselves as dedicated leaders in the newspaper industry
Tara Brandl and Justin Lessman can laugh about their friendly rivalry, one that goes all the way back to their days in 4-H.
But their local rural roots and competitive spirit are not the only things they have in common, as they are both serious about the future of local journalism in Minnesota.
Last Friday, Brandl succeeded Lessman as the new president of the Minnesota Newspaper Association at the organization’s 159th Annual Convention & Trade Show at the Minneapolis Marriot Northwest in Brooklyn Park.
“I’ve known her since we were little kids running around the beef barn at the Lyon County Fair in Marshall,” Lessman said as he introduced Brandl in his final speech as MNA president. “And I am honored to have her as publisher of my hometown newspaper.” After accepting the gavel, Brandl, who has served on the MNA board since 2019, thanked MNA members and MNA Past Presidents for the honor of being the next president.
“Looking back, I could’ve never guessed the profound impact this association would have on my life,” Brandl said. “We all know that our industry is changing, but the need for quality local journalism is more vital today than ever.”
Brandl said MNA’s greatest strength is its ability to be a resource for its members to help them do their jobs effectively.
“I look forward to working alongside the incredible MNA staff over the coming year,” she said. “We have a fantastic board of people who care deeply about the future of local journalism in all of its forms.”
Lessman began his career in journalism with his hometown newspaper, the Tracy Headlight Herald, and later interned with the Marshall Independent. He earned his undergraduate degree in agricultural journalism from South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD.
A 1999 graduate of Tracy Area High School and current news editor of the Jackson County Pilot, Lessman has been a mainstay on the MNA board since 2015 and just finished up his second stint as president (2021, 2025).
“I remember when Rolly Bergman asked if I would consider standing for election to the MNA Board of Directors; I remember saying to him two things — first I told him I was surprised he even knew who I was and secondly, I told him I would be honored to stand for election to the board,” Lessman said. “I’ve enjoyed serving on the board alongside such dedicated and selfless board members. I’ve relished the opportunity to work closely with the MNA staff, and I continue to deeply appreciate the unique support structure that is the MNA Past Presidents. It’s been an absolute honor.”
Brandl is a 1999 graduate of RTR High School and Southwest Minnesota State University with majors in public relations and radio and television, as well as a minor in marketing. She has 23 years of experience in the industry, beginning in advertising sales at the Marshall Independent.
Brandl worked as advertising manager for the Independent prior to forming Above The Fold Publishing, and is now the co-owner of four newspapers in the region — the Tracy Area Headlight Herald, Tyler Area Tribute, Lake Benton Valley Journal and Hendricks Pioneer. She is also the chair of MNA’s Advertising and Digital Media Committee.
