CONNECT Iredell Welcomes Samantha Hill, LKNR as Contributing Writer

Last Updated 10/5/2026 • Posted in Inspiring Iredell


STATESVILLE N.C. (October 1,, 2026) – CONNECT Iredell announced today that journalist Samantha Hill has joined its team as a contributing writer. Hill, editor and founder of the Lake Norman Record (LKNR), will serve as contributing writer for the return of the Inspiring Iredell, launching this November.

Hill covers news, arts and culture across Iredell County through LKNR, a free local news outlet serving Statesville, Mooresville, and surrounding communities. Her reporting spans public interest news, local theater and music, community organizations and Written Here, LKNR’s spotlight on local authors. That commitment to amplifying local voices makes her a natural fit for Iredell Citizens, and it deepens a partnership already in place: LKNR stories are featured on iredellnc.com under Local Voices.

“Local matters. The people, businesses and organizations doing meaningful work across Iredell County are what make this community special, and their stories deserve to be told,” said Cindy Sutton, founder and editor-in-chief of CONNECT Iredell. “Sam is exactly what we need to help us tell those stories with the care and credibility they deserve. Through Iredell Citizens, we have an opportunity to capture the people and moments shaping Iredell today while creating a record of our community that will live on for the future.”

The Inspiring Iredell series highlights the people who make Iredell County what it is: neighbors, business owners, volunteers and community builders whose stories often go untold. The series returns in November with weekly features written by Hill and shared on iredellnc.com, social channels and CONNECT Iredell newsletter.

“I am happy to continue to highlight local voices and share stories that make up Iredell County. Hearing the stories of who and what makes up our community is more important than ever as a growing county. In addition, local journalism plays a vital role in keeping communities informed, connected and strong, both today and for future generations.” said Samantha Hill, editor and founder of Lake Norman Record

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About CONNECT Iredell

Connect Iredell is a project of Spokeology and the first community platform powered by the CONNECT Engine, Spokeology’s framework for building stronger, more connected communities. Through local storytelling, collaboration and community-led initiatives, Connect Iredell strengthens connections, supports local businesses, promotes local opportunities and showcases the people and organizations shaping Iredell County. The platform demonstrates how communities can build stronger local economies and create meaningful connections through entrepreneurship and local leadership. Learn more at iredellnc.com. 

About the Lake Norman Record

Lake Norman Record is a free, local digital based news outlet in Iredell County and Lake Norman region. LKNR covers various topics from arts, culture and news. We strive to promote civil conversation, raise questions and concerns, and promote arts, culture and community through LKNR. Starting in the summer of 2026, LKNR is here to create community and connections all throughout the county. Learn more at lakenormanrecord.com.



Cindy Sutton and Steve Hill smile while holding his book, Statesville After Dark, inside the Statesville Historical Collection.
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CONNECT Iredell is made possible through the support of community-minded partners.