Jamie Patterson will become the new editor and publisher of The Yazoo Herald next week.
She succeeds her husband, Jason Patterson, who is joining Yazoo Valley Electric as a communications specialist.
Jamie Patterson has worked for The Yazoo Herald for 15 years, and she has served as the newspaper’s managing editor for the last decade. Along the way she has been recognized as one of the top journalists in the state. She has won the Bill Minor Award four times, more than any other journalist in Mississippi, and earned over 40 first place awards for writing and photography.
“No one is better qualified to lead this newspaper,” Jason Patterson said. “Jamie’s work here speaks for itself. She has earned this opportunity.”
Jamie Patterson earned a degree in journalism from Delta State University before beginning her professional career at The Bolivar Commercial in Cleveland. She later worked for The Clarion Ledger before joining the staff of The Yazoo Herald in 2006.
“I have worked alongside Jason for nearly two decades, and I admit that it will feel different without him,” Jamie Patterson said. “However, through his mentorship and advice over the years, I feel confident that I will continue to perform my role at this newspaper on a solid foundation. I had a good teacher, and I am excited for this amazing opportunity to serve the community I love.”
Jamie Patterson said her number one goal remains to provide quality news coverage to this community.
“Community journalism is vital to a place like Yazoo, and I intend to keep our community informed about what matters to them,” she said. “I am proud of the work I have done at The Herald so far, and I am ready to continue that pattern within my new role as publisher. I may add more duties onto my plate, but the mission remains clear. I am a journalist who will serve my readers through watchdog coverage, positive features and unique perspectives. That foundation and dedication will remain, regardless of titles.”
Jason Patterson said he looks back fondly on his time at The Yazoo Herald, and he is excited about the future.
“When I first came here Jamie and I weren’t even married yet,” he said. “Now we have three kids, and this newspaper has always allowed us to provide for our family. I’m proud of the work we’ve done together over the years, and I’m grateful to live in a community that has shown us such tremendous support. This job has been a dream come true for me. Now I have a new opportunity that will allow me to continue to serve this community with a team of people I respect.”
