The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) today announced that AJ Willingham, an Emmy Award-winning journalist and veteran digital storyteller, is joining the newsroom as the new voice behind the newspaper’s morning newsletter, A.M. ATL.

Willingham joins the AJC following her notable tenure as Senior Culture Writer at CNN, where she earned both a National News and Documentary Emmy and a National Association of Black Journalists Salute to Excellence Award. During her time at CNN, she managed the network's flagship newsletter franchise, CNN's 5 Things, and created The Good Stuff weekend newsletter.

"AJ will bring a unique voice and personality to A.M. ATL as we continue to evolve our morning newsletter into an essential part of daily life in Atlanta," said Andrew Morse, president and publisher of the AJC. "She understands how to engage audiences through storytelling across all platforms, which makes her an important addition to our newsroom."

An Atlanta resident for more than 15 years, Willingham brings extensive experience covering both international social justice issues and signature Atlanta events, including Dragon Con and Super Bowl LIII. She has been a frequent guest on television, radio and podcasts, discussing her wide-ranging reporting work.

"Local journalism is the future," Willingham said. "The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is committed to empowering communities around the South, and I'm grateful to be a part of its growing mission."

Originally from Silver Spring, Maryland, Willingham's hiring reinforces the AJC's commitment to bringing distinctive voices and compelling storytelling to its audience.

Sign up for A.M. ATL.

Headshot of Willingham available here.