Meg Pallis: A Communicator for a Vibrant Somerville

 

Meg Pallis works in communications/community outreach for the city of Somerville. She also freelance writes and has been published in local publications from The Boston Compass (interviews/community creative nonfiction) as well as for a local publication called the Quinobequin Review. She has two creative works that will be published in their May 2026 edition about being from Massachusetts and the other about a portal inside the Market Basket parking lot.

How has living in Somerville been for you as a writer?

Living in Somerville has been a vibrant and exciting experience for me as a creative! This city is a labyrinth of diverse art scenes, and the longer I live here, the more corners I find tucked away. Somerville is brimming with creative energy, serving as a melting pot of cultures, art forms, and brilliant minds. It offers a tapestry of stories and voices to explore. Engaging with local artists and participating in community projects has not only enriched my writing but  has also allowed me to spotlight the diverse narratives that shape our creative community. Somerville's blend of culture and collaboration stimulates my mind and satisfies my creative itch, keeping me refreshed and engaged.

 

Tell me about your role in communications/community outreach for the city of Somerville.

I have a background in digital marketing and education, and I enjoy applying my skill set to enhance community engagement and communication around local programs and initiatives. I find it immensely rewarding to work alongside an intelligent group of like-minded individuals who genuinely care about our community. I have tremendous respect for my colleagues and the work they do, and I know we share a commitment to effective communication, responsible media engagement, and keeping our constituents informed and connected.

You write for a number of publications. Did you study journalism?

No, I did not study journalism, but I did earn a degree in graphic design and marketing from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. My studies there helped shape my understanding of effective communication and storytelling. I also grew up in a household that deeply valued reading and the written word—my mother was a librarian, and my father owns a printing press. As a result, the power of printed materials played a significant role in my upbringing.

You are a prolific interviewer. What do you think is the 'art' of the interview?

Thank you! I think I’m naturally curious and a little chatty, which often leads me to ask questions that genuinely resonate with me. I also place a high value on authenticity, and I believe that helps me connect with people and create a comfortable environment where they feel encouraged to share their stories openly. Over the years, I’ve conducted a handful of written interviews, as well as many live recorded interviews through a YouTube channel for a community project I worked on called Night Cap Radio. That project was particularly interesting because it was my first experience interviewing people in a livestream format. Being recorded in real time required me to be present, adaptable, and focused on creating an authentic conversation rather than a scripted exchange.

 

How important do you think community journalism is—as many newspapers fold?

It is so important, especially now, in an age of doomscrolling and being bombarded with untrustworthy news—to stay tapped into the conversations happening within your local community. Doing so not only supports independent local publications but also helps you develop a deeper understanding of your neighbors and maintain a stronger pulse on your city.