Graham succeeds Carsner as Paris News publisher

PARIS, Texas – Clay Carsner has turned over the reins of The Paris News to a woman who has worked just a few steps away from him over his 14-year tenure, including the last five years as publisher at the paper.

Southern Newspapers, which owns The Paris News and nine other newspapers across Texas, announced this week that Kelsey Graham will be the next publisher of the paper.

Graham has been with the paper for 11 years, eight of those as business manager.

“She’s worked with Clay on every aspect of the business,” Southern Newspapers President Leonard Woolsey said. “This time will give her and Clay the opportunity to work side by side during this transition.”

“I’m so happy and proud for Kelsey and The Paris News team,” Carsner said. “Kelsey will be a great publisher.”

Graham said she was grateful for the opportunity.

“The Paris News and this community have been such a big part of my life for many years, and I’m proud to have the chance to lead a team I know and believe in,” Graham said. “I’m excited to get out into the community, build strong relationships, and make sure The Paris News continues to be a place our community can count on. I look forward to what’s ahead and couldn’t be more excited to get started.”

As Graham steps into the role, Carsner will step out, taking advantage of an opportunity to take over his family’s ranching business.

“I talked with my family, had a lot of reflection internally and came to the realization that ranching is something that’s in my blood,” Carsner said. “It’s my passion. This was a unique opportunity, and so I made the decision.”

And while Carsner is leaving The Paris News, he’s not leaving Paris entirely. He and his family will still live in Paris, and he will tend to a ranching operation he has in the area, but he will split time with his family’s ranch in West Texas.

“All of us understand that this is an important step for Clay and his family,” Woolsey said. “We thank him for his outstanding service to the Paris community and wish him the very best.”

Carsner said his five years as publisher have been a very rewarding experience and that he’s grateful that he’s had the chance to work with such a dedicated team, and for a company like Southern Newspapers.

“I’ve appreciated the support, trust and relationships that I’ve built during my time here,” Carsner said. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right move for me and my family.”