Iowa Public Radio announces News Director

05/29/08 (Des Moines) - Iowa Public Radio welcomes Jonathan Ahl to the newly created position of IPR News Director. In his role, Ahl will be responsible for leading the news department as an essential news service, focusing on the production and promotion of award-winning, in-depth stories and series, and ensuring editorial integrity in newscasts. He will join the network on July 1.

Ahl comes to IPR from WCBU-FM in Peoria, IL where he served as news director and as an on-air host and producer. He also served as a part-time instructor at Bradley University teaching public affairs, broadcast news and basic reporting in addition to journalistic writing. Ahl is the current board president for the PRNDI which represents public radio news directors around the country.

"Jonathan brings solid journalistic credentials to the position, along with a Midwest sensibility and tremendous enthusiasm to work with our talented and experienced staff," expressed Cindy Browne, executive director of Iowa Public Radio.

"It's humbling to be chosen to lead such an incredible staff," said Ahl. "Each of the IPR stations has a rich history of excellent audience service and award-winning news programming. And, as this year's coverage of the Iowa Caucuses shows, they are coming together to create something even more amazing."

Ahl has a master's degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois - Springfield along with a bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University. His office will be located in Des Moines.

Iowa Public Radio informs, enriches and engages Iowans through radio programming and other media. Iowa Public Radio includes the WOI Radio Group (Iowa State University, Ames), KUNI-KHKE (University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls), and KSUI-WSUI (University of Iowa, Iowa City).

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