A longtime Marin resident and seven-year veteran of the Independent Journal newsroom has been named editor of its lifestyles section.

Colleen Bidwill, who had been the section’s assistant editor, takes over for Vicki Larson, who departed the IJ last week after 19 years.

Bidwill will oversee the news organization’s features content, which includes a stable of award-winning columnists and freelance contributors. She started her new role on Monday.

Bidwill, 31, has an extensive background in features work from her time at the online publication Jones Magazine, as well as her work as features editor at the Daily Orange, the student newspaper at her alma mater, Syracuse University.

“This community and newspaper mean a lot to me,” Bidwill said. “I am honored and thrilled to take on this new endeavor. I look forward to continuing to find ways to connect with others and highlight the people and places that make Marin so unique and special.”

Bidwill came to the IJ in 2016, working as calendar editor for six years. She was named the section’s assistant editor in 2022.

The Mill Valley resident grew up in Greenbrae. She graduated from Redwood High School, where she worked on the staff of the award-winning student newspaper, the Bark.

“Colleen is a natural,” said Jennifer Upshaw Swartz, the IJ’s managing editor. “Selecting her for this role was an easy decision. She brings her talent, enthusiasm and her A-game to the section every day. We are excited to see where she takes it.”