Cate Folsom is a part-time lecturer in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, bringing over four decades of experience in investigative journalism, editorial leadership, and nonprofit news. She graduated cum laude from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with bachelor’s degrees in English literature and journalism.

Folsom most recently served as the founding editor-in-chief of the Nebraska Examiner, where she led a team of reporters and contributors in delivering impactful watchdog reporting on Nebraska state government and public affairs. Under her leadership, the newsroom gained a reputation for producing high-quality journalism that drove significant change, including legislative reforms and government accountability.

Previously, Folsom held numerous editorial roles at the Omaha World-Herald, including metro-regional editor and editorial page editor. She managed reporting teams that produced award-winning projects, including investigations that triggered changes in state law and leadership. She also authored the nonfiction book Smoke the Donkey: A Marine’s Unlikely Friend and has received numerous honors, including induction into the Omaha Press Club Hall of Fame and multiple awards for excellence in journalism and design.

Folsom’s expertise includes fostering young talent, leading investigative projects, and advancing community-focused journalism that delivers real-world results.