Courtney Sebesta Named Executive Editor of the Austin American-Statesman

July 1 marks a new era for the Austin American-Statesman as Courtney Sebesta steps up as its executive editor. Sebesta, an Austin native with a 22-year history at the paper, was announced as the new top editor by Gannett, Co. Inc. on Monday.

Courtney has an extensive and impressive track record as a journalist and longstanding member of the Austin community. Her talent and expertise will further our mission to deliver impactful, relevant news and content to her fellow Texans. — Kristin Roberts, Gannett Media Chief Content Officer

Sebesta's promotion was met with applause from the Statesman staff, and her colleagues spoke highly of her capabilities:

We are looking forward to the journey ahead. The way we look at it, we are just getting going. — Michael Anastasi, Gannett’s VP of Local News

[Sebesta is a] digitally savvy editor and strategic thinker... [with] compassion she exudes for everyone she works with. — Ray Rivera, VP of News, Gannett Middle America Region

Starting as an editorial assistant, Sebesta climbed the ranks as a features reporter, digital editor, senior editor, and managing editor. She temporarily left the Statesman to manage other digital sites within the USA Today Network, but returned to her home newsroom in 2022 as managing editor. During her tenure, she also led the Sunbelt regional digital optimization team which partnered with the Statesman for its award-winning coverage of the 2022 Uvalde school shooting.

Now, Sebesta is ready to lead the paper she calls home:

I am thrilled to continue my career in the place I call home with the stellar journalists I’ve worked alongside for many years. I look forward to leading this award-winning team I admire and know so well. — Courtney Sebesta

Learn more about Courtney Sebesta and the Austin American-Statesman here:

• Gannett's Official Announcement: [URL to be inserted if available]
• Austin American-Statesman Website: https://www.statesman.com/
• Courtney Sebesta's Twitter: [Twitter handle or URL if available]

Congratulations, Editor Sebesta! ##