NATCHEZ — Lynn Beach Smith has joined the staff of The Natchez Democrat as a marketing representative.

Smith, originally from Columbia, was most recently employed as the administrative secretary for The University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Jay Dean.

Upon bringing the orchestra to perform in Natchez in October 2009, Smith fell in love with the city and made it her goal to move here. She expects to complete a degree in vocal music performance from USM this May.

She is currently singing professionally all over the state and looks forward to exploring the history and getting to know the people of Natchez.