Spotlight On: Heather Murray, Local Journalism Project Managing Attorney

In honor of International Women’s History Month 2026, we are turning the spotlight on an attorney whose work supports journalists and helps strengthen the future of media law.

This week, ProJourn is highlighting Heather Murray, Local Journalism Project Managing Attorney and Associate Director at the Cornell Law School First Amendment Clinic.

Murray oversees the Local Journalism Project’s pro bono work with journalists and news organizations. Her work includes pre-publication review of documentaries, books, and other content; legal advice and representation in lawsuits seeking access to public records and court proceedings; and defense of First Amendment and news-gathering rights.

Through her work at the First Amendment Clinic, Murray also unites journalists with the next generation of media attorneys.

In addition to her work with the Local Journalism Project, Murray serves on ProJourn’s Advisory Committee, where she provides strategic guidance to help the program grow efficiently and sustainably.

We work so well together in part because we have a shared core mission of growing the bench of lawyers trained to support news outlets and freelancers.

Heather E. Murray, Cornell Law School
First Amendment Clinic

ProJourn is grateful for attorneys like Heather who keep the cycle of education and impact alive.

Learn more about ProJourn’s Pre-Publication Review work.

Interested in making a difference? Visit projourn.org/volunteer to learn more.