Akers named MSPR assistant news director

Morehead State Public Radio has announced the hiring of Leeann Akers as assistant news director.

Her first day will be July 17. Akers will succeed Dan Conti, who retired June 30.

“We are excited to have Leeann join MSPR’s award-winning news team. Leeann is a smart and passionate journalist who strives for excellence in reporting,” said Paul Hitchcock, MSPR general manager.

A two-time graduate of Morehead State University, she earned her bachelor’s degree in theatre and master’s degree in communications.

During her time at MSU, she began her broadcasting career as a student working for MSPR.

“As a student at MSU, Leeann was a talented and highly-motivated member of our news team and I have no doubt that she'll make great contributions to our news product as a full-time staff member.  It's nice to have one of our own coming home,” said Chuck Mraz, news director.

Her previous experience includes editor of the Grayson Journal Enquirer and Olive Hill Times, sports editor of The Morehead News and Grayson Journal. She also has been a contributing writer to the (Ashland) Daily Independent.

Akers has won awards from the Kentucky Press Association in investigative journalism, breaking news, photography and design.

A member of the First Christian Church, she currently serves as a deacon, co-chair of the deacons and the evangelism committee, and sings in the choir.

A Johnson County native, Akers lives in Morehead with her two sons.

MSPR broadcasts 24 hours a day and serves more than 20 counties in Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia. WMKY (90.3 FM) serves as the flagship station for the network, and includes a translator in Inez.

Additional information is available on MSPR's website at www.wmky.org or from Hitchcock at wmky@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2001.