Thursday, April 19, 2012

Rita Andolsen to New Position at WKYC

Rita Andolsen
Long-time news executive Rita Andolsen has turned her sights on a creative new position with WKYC, helming the stations enhanced efforts in community outreach, creative local programming, and successful special events.

“For 12 years, I’ve helped present the daily struggles and challenges of Northeast Ohio. Now I have a chance to take all I’ve learned and create projects and partnerships that can make things better for our communities. While local television has always had the power to shine a light on the issues, we now have multiple platforms to create support and exposure for worthy endeavors. We can be a catalyst for real change,” said Ms. Andolsen “and I can’t wait to get started”.

“WKYC’s vision, and that of all of Gannett’s 23 television stations, is to serve the greater good in our communities,” stated President and General Manager Brooke Spectorsky. “With Rita’s outstanding stature in the greater Cleveland communities, I can think of no better leader to take on this vital role for Channel 3.

Ms. Andolsen will be responsible for designing and implementing advocacy projects and launching new community partnerships. She will take a lead position on major station campaigns, working closely with WKYC local programming, news, sales, the networks of NBC and the resources of Gannett including USA Today.

Rita’s awards include the regional Edward R. Murrow for Journalism, as well as multiple Emmys. She serves on the boards of: College Now, The Gathering Place, The Karen P. Nakon Breast Cancer Foundation, and The Prayers from Maria Foundation.

She begins her new position in early summer. The station will begin a search for her replacement shortly.