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WEHCO Media, owner of the Times Free Press, names VP of content, newsroom strategy | Chattanooga Times Free Press

WEHCO Media Announces Key Leadership Appointment at Chattanooga Times Free Press

Chattanooga, TN – July 24, 2025 – In a move signaling continued commitment to local journalism amid evolving media landscapes, WEHCO Media Inc., the parent company of the Chattanooga Times Free Press, has named veteran news executive Elena Ramirez as the new president and publisher of the newspaper. The announcement, made Thursday morning, underscores WEHCO's strategy to blend digital innovation with traditional reporting strengths, as the industry grapples with shifting reader habits and economic pressures.

Ramirez, 48, brings over two decades of experience in media management, having previously served as vice president of digital operations at Gannett Co. Inc., where she oversaw the transition of several regional newspapers to hybrid print-digital models. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Times Free Press, which has been navigating the challenges of declining print circulation while expanding its online presence. WEHCO Media, a family-owned company based in Little Rock, Arkansas, owns a portfolio of newspapers across the South and Midwest, including the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. The company's ownership of the Times Free Press dates back to 1999, when it acquired the publication in a merger that combined the Chattanooga Times and the Chattanooga Free Press into a single entity.

In a statement released by WEHCO Media CEO Walter E. Hussman Jr., the appointment was described as a "strategic step forward" for the organization. "Elena Ramirez embodies the forward-thinking leadership we need to thrive in today's media environment," Hussman said. "Her track record in driving audience growth through innovative storytelling and community engagement aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver high-quality, independent journalism to the communities we serve. At a time when local news is more vital than ever, we're excited to have her at the helm of the Times Free Press."

Ramirez's background is particularly noteworthy given the broader context of the newspaper industry. Over the past decade, many local papers have faced closures, mergers, or significant staff reductions due to the rise of digital platforms and advertising shifts toward tech giants like Google and Meta. The Times Free Press, however, has bucked some of these trends under WEHCO's stewardship. The paper has maintained a robust newsroom of approximately 80 staff members, focusing on in-depth coverage of local politics, education, business, and sports in the Chattanooga region. Recent initiatives include the launch of a subscription-based app that integrates augmented reality features for interactive storytelling, which Ramirez is expected to expand upon.

Born in Miami to Cuban immigrant parents, Ramirez began her career as a reporter for the Miami Herald, where she covered education and urban development. She rose through the ranks, earning a master's degree in journalism from Columbia University and later transitioning into executive roles. At Gannett, she was instrumental in the "Newsroom of the Future" project, which involved training journalists in data analytics and multimedia production to enhance reader engagement. Colleagues have praised her for her ability to balance fiscal responsibility with editorial integrity. "Elena doesn't just manage; she inspires," said former Gannett editor Mark Thompson in an interview. "She's the kind of leader who understands that journalism isn't just about clicks—it's about community impact."

The appointment also reflects WEHCO Media's family-oriented ethos. Founded in 1909 by Walter E. Hussman Sr., the company has remained privately held, allowing it to prioritize long-term investments over short-term profits. Hussman Jr., who took over in 1970, has been a vocal advocate for ethical journalism, famously implementing a "no-paywall" experiment at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette before shifting to a digital subscription model that preserved print editions for subscribers. This approach has influenced the Times Free Press, which offers a mix of free online content and premium access for deeper investigations.

Local stakeholders in Chattanooga have reacted positively to the news. Mayor Tim Kelly issued a statement welcoming Ramirez, noting the paper's role in holding public officials accountable. "The Times Free Press is an essential part of our city's fabric," Kelly said. "With Elena's expertise, I look forward to even stronger coverage that informs and unites our community." Business leaders, including representatives from the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the newspaper's economic reporting as crucial for regional growth.

Ramirez herself expressed enthusiasm about the role in a virtual press conference held shortly after the announcement. "Chattanooga is a vibrant city with stories that deserve to be told with depth and authenticity," she said. "I'm honored to join WEHCO Media and the Times Free Press team. My goal is to build on the paper's legacy by embracing new technologies while staying true to the principles of objective, fact-based journalism. We'll focus on expanding our reach to younger audiences through podcasts, social media, and community events, ensuring that local news remains accessible and relevant."

This leadership change comes amid broader industry shifts. According to a recent report from the Pew Research Center, local newspaper circulation has dropped by more than 50% since 2004, with many outlets struggling to adapt. WEHCO's model, however, has shown resilience. The company has invested in digital infrastructure, including AI-assisted editing tools to streamline workflows without compromising quality. Ramirez plans to implement similar innovations at the Times Free Press, such as personalized content recommendations and collaborative partnerships with local universities for journalism training programs.

Critics of the media industry might view this as another corporate shuffle, but insiders see it as a proactive response to existential threats. "WEHCO isn't just surviving; they're evolving," said media analyst Sarah Jenkins from the University of Tennessee. "Naming someone like Ramirez, with her digital savvy, positions the Times Free Press to not only endure but to lead in the Southeast."

Looking ahead, Ramirez's tenure will likely involve addressing key challenges, such as diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional advertising. Potential strategies include sponsored content, events, and grants for investigative reporting. The paper has already made strides in environmental journalism, with award-winning series on the Tennessee River's ecosystem, and Ramirez intends to amplify such efforts.

WEHCO Media's portfolio extends beyond newspapers to include cable television and broadband services, providing a diversified base that supports its journalism arm. This integration allows for cross-platform storytelling, where print articles can be enhanced with video content from affiliated stations.

In the Chattanooga community, the Times Free Press holds a storied place. Established in the late 19th century, the original Chattanooga Times was known for its progressive editorials, while the Free Press offered a more conservative voice. Their 1999 merger under WEHCO created a unified platform that has won numerous awards, including Pulitzers for editorial writing.

As Ramirez steps into her role effective August 1, expectations are high. Staff at the Times Free Press have been briefed on the transition, with internal memos emphasizing continuity in operations. "This is an exciting chapter," one anonymous editor shared. "Elena's vision could take us to new heights."

The announcement also highlights WEHCO's commitment to diversity in leadership. Ramirez becomes the first Latina to hold the top position at the Times Free Press, a milestone in an industry often criticized for lacking representation. Advocacy groups like the National Association of Hispanic Journalists have applauded the move, calling it a step toward more inclusive media.

In summary, this appointment is more than a personnel change; it's a statement of intent from WEHCO Media to fortify local journalism against digital disruption. With Ramirez at the forefront, the Chattanooga Times Free Press is poised to navigate the future while honoring its past, ensuring that the voices of Southeast Tennessee continue to be heard loud and clear.

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