Sara Johnson has joined the staff of The Tidewater News as an advertising account executive.

Johnson was born and raised in Southampton County. After graduating from Southampton High School in 2004, she attended Radford University then transferred to the University of North Carolina at Asheville, where she received a degree in music.

“I loved Asheville, but I missed home,” Johnson said about her decision to return to Southampton County.

As an account executive at The Tidewater News, Johnson handles all the advertising needs of businesses in Windsor, Smithfield and Suffolk and parts of Franklin.

“I am very excited to be a part of the team here at The Tidewater News. I’ve read this paper all my life, and now I get to be a part of it. It’s very rewarding.”

“Sara is bright, energetic and fun, and I know our customers will enjoy working with her,” added Betty Ramsey, advertising director.

Being a local, Johnson knows the area and its people.

“I want to help our community,” she said. “Times are tough, and we all need to stick together to get through to better days.”

Johnson has played the piano for more than 15 years. She recently performed her senior recital for the Tarrara Women’s Club of Boykins at Boykins United Methodist Church. Her favorite composer is Beethoven.

“His music has such passion and depth, it tells the story of his life,” she said.

Johnson lives in Capron and enjoys spending time with her family, especially her niece Makayla.

“I’m so glad to be back home near my family because they’re so important to me,” she said. “I look forward starting my career back at home.”