The passing of Andrea Hanis, a celebrated figure in Chicago journalism, marks a profound loss. Andrea Hanis, Editor of the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, died on November 12, 2025, at the age of 56, after a courageous 14-month battle with glioblastoma. Known for her innovative approaches, keen intellect, and unparalleled ability to nurture aspiring writers, the impact of Andrea Hanis Editor on the Chicago news landscape is undeniable. Her career stands as a testament to her dedication and talent.
Andrea Hanis Editor: Modernizing the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
As the Editor of the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Andrea Hanis spearheaded the modernization of the venerable 170-year-old publication. She guided its transformation into an indispensable resource for legal professionals, a role that showcased her acumen as an Andrea Hanis Editor. Appointed in July 2021, her primary objective was to oversee the newsroom’s digital expansion, aligning it with the company’s strategic growth imperatives. Law Bulletin Media President and Publisher Peter Mierzwa emphasized that Andrea Hanis’s expertise was vital for the publication’s adaptation to the evolving demands of the legal sector. The Chicago news editor was pivotal in this transition.
A Diverse and Influential Journalism Career of Andrea Hanis
Andrea Hanis’s distinguished career featured pivotal leadership positions across Chicago’s premier media organizations. Her previous impactful roles were at the Chicago Tribune, Crain’s Chicago Business, and the Chicago Sun-Times. This extensive experience cemented her reputation as one of the influential women in journalism.
At the Chicago Tribune, Andrea Hanis was a driving force behind the launch and direction of Blue Sky Innovation, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to covering technology and entrepreneurship through compelling narratives and events. She also contributed significantly as an editorial writer and editor within the Tribune’s business section, further defining her role as a respected legal journalism innovator.
Before her tenure at the Tribune, Hanis held the position of assistant managing editor at Crain’s Chicago Business. In this capacity, she conceptualized the highly successful Business of Life section, which brought a human-centered perspective to business reporting, featuring coverage of philanthropy and the insightful “Taking Names” column. Her move to the Tribune in June 2011 saw Steve Reiss succeed her in this role, highlighting her impact as an Andrea Hanis Editor.
Her early career included an impressive 11-year stint at the Chicago Sun-Times, where she served as Travel Editor. During her time there, her columns and the weekly travel section she curated garnered national accolades, highlighting her journalistic prowess. Andrea Hanis’s career in journalism commenced at the Louisville Courier-Journal, following her completion of a journalism degree from Indiana University. Her work there contributed to her enduring journalism legacy.
Mentorship and a Lasting Editorial Legacy of Andrea Hanis Editor
Colleagues consistently lauded Andrea Hanis for her exceptional talent in guiding writers to discover and hone their unique voices. She was recognized not only for her precision with language but also for her empathetic editorial approach, capable of transforming both individual pieces and writers’ careers through her sharp insights and unwavering encouragement. Her influence as an Andrea Hanis Editor left an indelible mark on every newsroom she helmed, cultivating an environment where talent could genuinely thrive. Her contributions to the Law Bulletin editor role were particularly significant.
Personal Reflections and Life Beyond Newsrooms
Born and raised in Whiting, Indiana, Andrea Hanis demonstrated exceptional academic ability, graduating high school at 16. Beyond her professional endeavors, she possessed a profound appreciation for life’s finer aspects. She savored excellent espresso, sought out impeccably prepared baklava, and was an ardent admirer of the classic television series “Columbo.” Embracing her Greek heritage, she once spent a summer teaching English in Greece. Her personal collections included coveted Louis Vuitton handbags and festive Starbucks Christmas ornaments. Andrea Hanis found her greatest solace at her home in Lakeside, Michigan, where she indulged in gardening and hosted cherished friends for Fourth of July fireworks.
Andrea Hanis is survived by her mother’s sisters and will be profoundly missed by her colleagues, friends, and family. A memorial service to celebrate her remarkable life was scheduled for January. Her substantial contributions to journalism, especially within the vibrant Chicago news community, ensure that her Andrea Hanis journalism legacy will continue to inspire.
