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Longtime Austin Media Leader Named Interim Director Of Austin's KUT And KUTX Public Radio

AUSTIN, Texas – May 8, 2018 – Longtime Austin media executive Patti C. Smith has been named interim executive director of KUT and KUTX Public Radio in Austin.

KUT and KUTX director and general manager Stewart Vanderwilt announced last month that he would depart in June to serve as president and CEO of Colorado Public Radio. Smith will serve as interim executive director during a national search for a permanent director for KUT and KUTX. She starts May 14.

“In my role as interim executive director of KUT and KUTX, my goal is to support and enhance the long-standing legacy of excellence established at each station to ensure they continue to serve our local listeners and communities,” said Smith. “I look forward to working with the outstanding staff at both stations to address the ever-changing landscape of the media industry. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity.”

Smith’s career spans more than 40 years in the television industry. She recently retired as president and general manager of KVUE-TV, Austin’s ABC affiliate, where she spent 17 years leading the station. Smith began her broadcasting career at KTBC-TV in 1975 after earning a bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of Texas at Austin.

“I’m very pleased Patti has agreed to serve as our interim executive director while we complete a national search for a new permanent director of these two amazing and important stations,” said Jay Bernhardt, dean of the Moody College of Communication, which houses KUT and KUTX. “Patti’s extensive experience in media operations and executive management will provide strong leadership during this period of transition.”

About KUT 90.5, Austin’s NPR station, and KUTX 98.9, The Austin Music Experience
KUT and KUTX are community supported public media that fuel Austin’s love of discovery. KUT 90.5, Austin’s NPR station, uses the highest editorial standards to report the stories that matter to Austin, and KUTX 98.9, the Austin Music Experience, enriches listeners’ lives with the music and experiences that reflect the spirit of Austin. Our work is directly supported by a community of sustaining members and local businesses whose investments power the music, news and conversations that matter to Austin.

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Contact:
Erin Geisler (512) 475-8071

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