Leidhra Johnson, junior journalism major, was selected today to be the next editor in chief of The State Hornet for the 2010-11 academic year.

Johnson was selected for editor in chief by the Publications Board after the board members interviewed two candidates.

Current editor in chief Todd Wilson said he was confident in Johnson’s ability to perform in the new position.

“Since Leidhra started here as an opinion columnist, I’ve seen her grow into a strong journalist who cares deeply about the Hornet and the work we do here,” Wilson said. “It has been my pleasure to work with her over the past year and a half. I’m proud to hand the paper off to her.”

Johnson said she has learned many valuable things from Wilson that she hopes to apply to the upcoming year.

“I have very big shoes to fill, but I’m excited about it,” Johnson said. “Hopefully we’ll have a large enough staff to continue the hard work we’ve done this semester and continue to keep the community informed.”

Holly Heyser, journalism professor and faculty adviser to the Hornet, said she is very excited to have Johnson as the new editor in chief.

“She’s one of those students who just rose to the top very quickly,” Heyser said.

Johnson began as an opinion writer for the Hornet in spring 2009. The following semester, she worked briefly as assistant features editor before being promoted to news editor. Johnson currently works as the print managing editor for the Hornet and will begin her new position at the end of the semester.

“Every step she takes she shows she has the talent to go on further,” Heyser said. “We’re very glad to have her, and we’re looking forward to watch how she rounds out her editor staff to move this forward.”

Applications for the Hornet are available in The State Hornet office on the second floor of the University Union.