MercerMe is pleased to announce a major milestone in its growth: for the first time in its history, the newsroom has appointed a full-time editor.
This spring, longtime journalist and Hopewell Township resident Seth Siditsky stepped into the role, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience in local and regional journalism — and a deep passion for telling the stories of the community he calls home.
While Seth officially began on April 1, he’s been hard at work since March — shaping coverage, sharpening the editorial process, and helping deliver more timely, thoughtful stories to readers across the Hopewell Valley.
A Career Rooted in Storytelling and Innovation
Seth began his journalism career as a photographer and reporter in New York’s Finger Lakes region, covering Geneva and surrounding towns for The Finger Lakes Times. In 2003, he moved to New Jersey to join The Star-Ledger as a photography intern. From there, he helped lead the paper’s transition into digital storytelling — becoming its first video director in the early days of YouTube, and later serving as Managing Editor for Visuals. He led teams through some of New Jersey’s biggest stories, from Superstorm Sandy to the Giants’ Super Bowl runs, and has won five NY Emmy Awards for his video work.
At Advance Local, the parent company of The Star-Ledger, he went on to support newsrooms around the country in building video operations and growing digital audiences. In recent years, he’s worked as a strategist and consultant for nonprofits, news organizations, and other companies working on building audiences, capacity, and audience engagement. Seth also worked at The Watershed Institute in Pennington where he helped expand the reach and impact of their work around clean and healthy water.
Strengthening Local Journalism in Hopewell Valley
Now, as the first full-time editor in MercerMe’s history, Seth is helping guide the next chapter of independent journalism in Hopewell Valley.
“Local news is at the heart of strong communities,” Seth said. “The Hopewell Valley is such a vibrant, inspiring place, and I’m excited to help tell the stories that shape life here — and to share them with readers across New Jersey and beyond.”
Part of that vision includes investing in the people already reporting for MercerMe. “I’ve been incredibly impressed by the work our current contributors are doing,” he said. “They bring curiosity, dedication, and a deep knowledge of the Valley to everything they cover. I’m excited to support their work and collaborate with them to expand our coverage even further.”
Seth is also helping build partnerships with colleges, including The College of New Jersey, to mentor student journalists and create internship opportunities focused on community-based reporting. “Developing the next generation of reporters is a priority — and it’s another way we stay connected to the evolving stories and energy of the region,” he said.
Since joining, Seth’s byline has already become a fixture — covering local government, school board meetings, community events, and even stopping by the Hopewell Valley Baseball & Softball Association’s Opening Day to help capture the start of the season. His arrival has raised the bar on how MercerMe reports, follows up, and connects with readers.
A Leap Made Possible by Community Generosity
MercerMe operates much like a nonprofit: lean, mission-driven, and powered by reader support. Hiring a full-time editor is a significant leap — one that wouldn’t be possible without community investment.
“Seth brings an incredible set of skills to this role—decades of journalism experience, a deep understanding of digital storytelling, and a real love for local news,” said Mary Galioto, founder and publisher of MercerMe. “This is a meaningful step forward for our newsroom, and for the community we serve. It wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our readers.”
You can meet Seth in person this spring at Pennington Day. Until then, expect to see his reporting — and MercerMe’s reach — continue to grow.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected, and more informed Hopewell Valley.
Support MercerMe and all the work we do to tell the stories of our community.
