Ben Hohenstatt is the new editor of the Juneau Empire. (Michael Penn | Juneau Empire File)                                Ben Hohenstatt is the new editor of the Juneau Empire. (Michael Penn | Juneau Empire File)

Ben Hohenstatt is the new editor of the Juneau Empire. (Michael Penn | Juneau Empire File) Ben Hohenstatt is the new editor of the Juneau Empire. (Michael Penn | Juneau Empire File)

Former reporter takes helm as editor at Empire

A familiar face will head up the paper.

Former arts and culture reporter Ben Hohenstatt has stepped up to be editor of the Juneau Empire, officially beginning Monday.

“I’ve greatly enjoyed my time in Juneau and with the Empire, and I look forward to continuing to work to provide the vibrant, busy community the coverage it deserves,” Hohenstatt said.

Raised in the Midwest, Hohenstatt has worked as a journalist for six years since graduating from Auburn University in Alabama. Hohenstatt has worked as a reporter for local papers in South Carolina and Illinois before taking work with the Empire and Capital City Weekly in 2018, where he’s been ever since.

Hohenstatt is married to his wife, Kim, and has a small dog, Archie.

“Ben’s intelligence, versatility, professionalism and passion for local journalism make him a great fit to lead the Juneau Empire’s hard-working news team,” said Josh O’Connor, president of Sound Publishing.

While the newsroom at the Empire has evolved to deal with the changing realities of local newspapers, Hohenstatt said his dedication to providing accurate, reliable news to the Juneau community has not.

The Empire is also working to fill or has filled multiple positions in different departments of the paper, including circulation, printing and the newsroom.

“I am truly excited about the team that is coming together and the work we will do,” Hohenstatt said.

• Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757.621.1197 or mlockett@juneauempire.com.

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