Jessica Caranza

El Defensor Chieftain has appointed a new editor after Jay Ann Cox stepped down after three months at the helm.

Former El Defensor Chieftain Editor/Publisher and now Vice-President of Advertising at the Albuquerque Journal Wanda Moeller said she is “delighted and enormously proud” a young energetic Socorro County woman is to take the reins of New Mexico’s oldest weekly newspaper.

Moeller announced today that Jessica Carranza of Magdalena would become editor effective immediately.

“Jessica brings great wealth and diversified experience with her to the position,” Moeller said. “Experience as a librarian as well as her work for The Guadalupe County Communicator in Santa Rosa, will be an asset to our local publication.”

In her previous position, Carranza managed the local newspaper’s office as well as wrote the weekly police blotter and various weekly feature stories. She also recorded the community’s local history by photographing various news and sports events.

“Jessica has an experienced eye and will help create the best news package for our readers,” Moeller said.

In addition, Carranza has a deep commitment to keeping local news at the forefront of its readers.

“I am thrilled to be back home and have this opportunity to serve Socorro County,” she said. “I believe that even in the digital age, local newspapers continue to be a valuable resource in our communities. My goal is to provide high-quality, reliable information that also highlights our unique and beautiful way of life. I look forward to starting this new adventure with you all.”

Carranza graduates in October from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Design Arts and Practices. In addition, she is bilingual in Spanish and is a professional photographer in her spare time.

El Defensor Chieftain