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The Courier’s newsroom expanded last week with local talent ready to cover county news and connect with the community.
Dylan Roddy, 29, joins the Elgin Courier as its new general assignment reporter, bringing experience and passion to an evolving team. A Central Texas native with deep roots in Taylor and Granger, Roddy is accustomed to the area and its continued development.
“I’m eager to share the stories of Bastrop County and happy to be here in Elgin with the team,” Roddy said.
Roddy holds a master’s degree in mass communication from Texas State University, along with a bachelor’s in journalism. He graduated in 2025 with a minor in political science and experience covering the local beat as a graduate instructional assistant in TSU’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Roddy’s resume includes time with Texas Community Health News, where he explored current wellbeing issues as an investigative reporter. His work has been featured on CBS Austin, Fort Worth Report and Texas Standard.
The move comes following a successful showing at the Texas Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and leadership changes for Bastrop County’s newspaper of record.
Managing Editor Niko Demetriou will be stepping away from his Elgin post, taking up a position with parent company Granite Media Partners. He will remain involved locally though, editing stories from the group’s newly formed copy desk.
“The privilege of getting to grow alongside Elgin’s brilliant community will stick with me for decades to come,” Demetriou said. “While you may not see me touring the county’s streets as often, I’m confident Mr. Roddy will step in and only improve the Courier’s level of service.”
Jason Chlapek will continue to serve as area editor and oversee weekly editions.
“I’m really excited to work with Dylan, I think we’re going to make a great team and give Bastrop County the best coverage it can receive,” Chlapek said.
