The Leader welcomes new journalist to newsroom

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James Sloan has joined the newsroom of the Jefferson County-Port Townsend Leader.

After graduating from the University of Tennessee as a journalism and electronic media major in May 2021, Sloan moved to Port Townsend in search of opportunity and a beautiful locale to begin his career as a journalist. 

He was born and raised in Brentwood, Tennessee on the outskirts of Nashville.

Although he discovered his love for journalism later in life, Sloan always had a knack for writing and reading from an early age.

“Literature is what really brought me into the journalism industry,” Sloan said. “Growing up I loved reading all kinds of books and short stories, especially the Harry Potter series, Stephen King novels, ‘The Great Gatsby’ and much more.”

Sloan’s first introduction to the news industry came from a Journalism 101 class he took during his freshman year of college.

“I always loved writing when I was younger, but after that class I discovered how I could turn a passion into a profession,” Sloan said. “Journalism has given me the opportunity to continue doing what I love while covering engaging stories and people.”

In college he wrote for The Maryville Daily Times and his university newspaper, The Daily Beacon. At The Daily Beacon he covered and critiqued new album releases from popular artists. 

“Music is such a vital part of my life; I’m not sure how I could function without it,” Sloan said. 

He played the euphonium in his high school marching band, and is an avid guitar player.

“I can’t wait to meet the people of Port Townsend, and learn more about this incredibly unique place,” Sloan said.   

Some of his hobbies include hiking, reading, traveling and photography.

“We are so incredibly pleased to have James join the team. He was a standout candidate in a very talented field,” said Leader editor Brian Kelly.