About Mohawk Valley Voice
Mohawk Valley Voice is your trusted source for independent, community-centered journalism in the heart of Upstate New York. Covering the Mohawk Valley, Utica-Rome, Syracuse, and the Capital Region, we shine a light on the stories that matter most to our neighbors—stories too often overlooked by corporate media.
Founded to elevate local voices and progressive perspectives, Mohawk Valley Voice delivers timely news, thoughtful commentary, and grassroots insight for a moderate to left-leaning audience. We believe that informed citizens are the cornerstone of a strong democracy, and we’re proud to serve as a platform for advocacy, awareness, and action.
Whether it’s breaking news, local government, education, arts, health, justice, or life hacks to improve everyday living—we’re here to amplify real stories from real people.
- Community-first: We prioritize the needs, concerns, and victories of the people who live and work here.
- Progressively-minded: Our editorial voice leans toward fairness, equity, inclusion, and evidence-based policy.
- Locally driven: From Boilermaker races to climate policy, from school board meetings to regional arts festivals—we bring it home.
We also believe journalism should empower. Through partnerships, local contributors, and citizen journalism, we aim to build a more connected, informed, and engaged Mohawk Valley.
Meet the Founders
David M. LaGuerre
David is an IT support specialist, veteran, educator, and longtime advocate for equity and inclusion in Central New York. He launched Mohawk Valley Voice as a way to fill the gap in independent, community-centered reporting and provide a platform for underrepresented voices. David formerly served as a writer, webmaster, and IT support specialist for the Utica Phoenix newspaper and its radio counterpart, WUSP Phoenix Radio. He brings over a decade of hands-on experience in education, media, and public service, using journalism as a tool to empower and inform the community.
Dawn M. LaGuerre
Dawn is a pioneering public servant, educator, and advocate with a legacy of civic leadership dating back to her early work in New York City. She was Brooklyn’s first Recycling Coordinator and worked under then–Borough President Howard Golden to launch city-wide sustainability and waste management initiatives. A respected figure in Utica’s advocacy circles, Dawn brings decades of experience in grassroots organizing, education, and public outreach. Her work continues to inspire new generations of civic engagement and community empowerment.
Together, David and Dawn built Mohawk Valley Voice as a family-led, purpose-driven outlet rooted in transparency, truth, and transformation.
Our Team
We are a growing network of contributors, organizers, citizen journalists, artists, and community members who care about the truth, the people, and the places that make Upstate NY special. Want to write, volunteer, or collaborate? Reach out to us here.
Join the Movement
- 💌 Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest headlines and community updates delivered to your inbox.
- 💬 Pitch a story or share a tip – we welcome submissions from everyday people.
- ❤️ Support independent media by buying us a coffee.
- 🛒 Visit our official merch store: www.imvshopnow.com
