H. James Potter has been hired as editor of the University Times, a new weekly publication of the Iowa State Daily Publications Board that will target Iowa State faculty and staff.

Potter, a native of Newton and former editor of the Ames Daily Tribune, began working Monday. He said said he is excited about working for the University Times.

“My heart really belongs in a newsroom,” he said. “This will be a great opportunity for me to get back in the newsroom after quite an absence.”

Potter’s newspaper experience includes about 14 years as editor or managing editor of the Tribune. He also worked at the Newton Daily News as news editor, the Des Moines Business Record and the Iowa Commerce Magazine.

Potter has assisted in publishing six books on trial litigation for STARR Litigation Services in West Des Moines and he worked as a copy writer for one of Iowa’s largest advertising agencies.

He said his goal for the University Times is to provide more opportunities for expression and the exchange of ideas on campus.

“I’m really excited to work with the students and see how they work,” Potter said.

Janette Antisdel, the Daily’s general manager, said the Publications Board is excited about Potter’s experience as a newspaper editor.

“Jim has a kind of perspective and personality that will help not only the paper, but will also serve as a guidance for the student reporters and photographers that will work for the paper,” Antisdel said.