SuperTalk Mississippi Media is proud to announce the company’s news director, J.T. Mitchell, has been honored as one of the top 40 leaders under 40 years old in the state.
Mitchell, a broadcast and digital journalist, has served as news director of SuperTalk Mississippi News for the better part of four years. His hiring in 2021 marked the youngest person to be selected to lead the statewide news team that delivers up-to-the-minute stories digitally and through hourly audio updates on more than 50 talk, music, and affiliate stations.
Mississippi Business Journal, through a panel of business and community leaders, chose this year’s “Top 40 Under 40” class after receiving hundreds of nominations. Mitchell is the only journalist to be included in the 2025 class.
“This is a huge honor, and honestly, it was unexpected. When Mississippi Business Journal called to tell me, I imagine they could hear the smile on my face through the phone,” Mitchell said. “To have someone like Scott Coopwood, a newspaper and magazine legend in this state, and the good people over at Mississippi Business Journal recognize the work I’ve put into the journalism and broadcasting industry means the world. I’m very grateful.
“I do want to say there’s no way this award would even be remotely possible without the rest of the news team. I mean, these journalists I work with on a daily basis are not only incredible but extremely talented. It’s always a team effort when trying to tackle the massive broadcast range we have.”
A community servant in his free time, Mitchell has dedicated countless hours to his involvement on the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation Board of Directors and the Greater Belhaven Foundation Board of Directors. He previously served on the Ocean Springs Homeless Council, as well.
Coopwood, who purchased Mississippi Business Journal in 2024 but has kept the publication’s decades-long run of recognizing young leaders alive, said selections were made based on both professional accolades and community involvement.
“J.T. is a super young, smart guy who’s just a great example of where we’re headed in Mississippi. He’s got a big future. There’s no doubt about that,” Coopwood said. “The bottom line is that we look for people who have really climbed the ladder already in their industries, and next, we look for community engagement. I think as you climb the ladder and build your career, you’ve also got to build your community and help build the state.”
Kim Dillon, president and CEO of SuperTalk Mississippi Media, lauded Mitchell for his work both inside and outside of the newsroom.
“We’re thrilled to see J.T. recognized as one of Mississippi’s ‘Top 40 Under 40.’ His commitment to journalistic excellence and tireless work both in and outside the newsroom has made a lasting impact on our company and our listeners throughout the state,” Dillon said. “J.T. is not only an exceptional leader in the newsroom, but he is also deeply engaged in his community.
“He generously dedicates his time to causes that matter – from serving on the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation Board and the Greater Belhaven Foundation Board to supporting those in need through his work on the Ocean Springs Homeless Council. His unwavering dedication to service reflects the values we cherish at SuperTalk Mississippi Media. We’re proud to call him one of our own and can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.”
Mississippi Business Journal will honor its newest “Top 40 Under 40” class during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson on June 25. The full list of honorees can be found here.
