If you are a Kansas Public Radio member or corporate sponsor, or support us by coming to our concerts or get-togethers, you've surely met someone from the KPR Development Department. We're the team that works with our members and sponsors, designs KPR graphics and plans events. It an honor to be part of the behind-the-scenes group that interacts with listeners who are passionate about KPR and want to support our efforts.
As KPR Development Director since 2015, I'm excited to share some exciting news about the department. I have requested that KPR's excellent Membership Director, Joanna Fewins, be promoted to Development Director, and that I have a new position focused on major gifts and corporate support! Joanna has worked for the station for nearly 16 years, first as an underwriting sales representative, in graphics and as Membership Director for seven years. Membership support has doubled because of her efforts, and I know she will make an excellent leader. I have been wanting a bit more flexibility in my life, and I am also very excited about my new position. I'll be working with Corporate Sponsorship Manager Jake Jacobson on underwriting and expanding our major gifts efforts.
I also wanted to take this opportunity to officially introduce you to our Media, Sponsorship and Events Coordinator Emily Fisher. Emily has been at the station for about three years now; she started as a student worker, helping with graphic design. After receiving her degree in illustration from the University of Kansas, we brought Emily on as a temporary worker to help with events and continue her wonderful graphics work. When a new position opened up in our department, managing PR and planning events, she applied and got the job. Emily hit the ground running as a full-time KPR employee - managing events celebrating Retro Cocktail Hour's 25th Anniversary and working on a special line-up of projects for KPR's 70th anniversary year, which starts on September 15 (stay tuned for more information on this exciting year - we have many fun promotions planned).
Those of you who tune in to KPR know this is a great station to listen to - the eclectic nature of our programming ensures there's something for everyone and for every mood. This is also a great place to work, with leadership that values flexibility and welcomes new ideas. The past several years have taught us that change is inevitable, and the best way we can be prepared is by having an open mind and trying new things. I'm very excited about this new chapter for the department that gets to interact with our community and the folks who support us!
