June 24, 2002

Contact: Janet Campbell, KANU, (785) 864-4603.

Kansas Public Radio general manager named to state board vice chair

LAWRENCE -- Janet Campbell, general manager of Kansas Public Radio and Audio-Reader, has been named vice chair of the Kansas Public Broadcasting Council. Kansas Public Radio is based at the University of Kansas.

During a meeting of the group on June 14 in Lindsborg, Campbell, who had been the group's secretary for three years, was elected vice chair to replace Richard Hicks, general manager of Smoky Hills Public Television. He will become the group's new chair. Campbell's appointment lasts for one year.

"I appreciate the confidence the members of the council are placing in me with this election," Campbell said.

The Kansas Public Broadcasting Council is composed of the CEOs of the 10 public radio stations and TV stations in the state. The council's mandate is to keep the Kansas Legislature advised of issues relating to public broadcasting and distribute state funds to stations for equipment purchases and operating expenses.

Hicks is grateful to have Campbell as vice chair.

"I've worked with Janet for the past three years," he said. "She is a bright and energetic person, and it's time to put her on the fast track to representing the whole council. The challenges that face public broadcasting are legion, and the challenges result in another opportunity for service to our constituents."

Campbell already has a full plate, running Kansas Public Radio and Audio-Reader and overseeing construction of KPR's new broadcast studio and office facility.

"Hopefully, the state's financial picture will brighten so that public broadcasting will not suffer any more financial setbacks," she said. "I look forward to working with Rick Hicks and all members of the council."