Preston Named CEO Of KMFA/Austin
• Capitol Broadcasting Association non-profit, listener-supported Classical KMFA 89.5/Austin has appointed George Preston as Chief Executive Officer, effective at the end of January. He will succeed President & General Manager, Ann Hume Wilson, who has led KMFA for 10 years.
Preston brings with him more than 30 years in radio and non-profit organizations, the last four years as VP of Radio & General Manager at WFMT/Chicago, where he also heads the WFMT Radio Network, the national syndication division of WFMT. Before that he was a host and music director for NPR affiliate WNYC/New York. In 2009, during an earlier stint at WFMT, Preston did afternoon drive and hosted and produced the internationally syndicated Lyric Opera of Chicago broadcasts.
Between stints at WFMT, Preston was GM of Classical KCME/Colorado Springs, where he added a full‐time jazz service. He formally started his career at Classical WXCR/Safety Harbor (Tampa), FL, and he earlier worked at Boston University’s WBUR.
“George comes to us with exceptional experience leading a Classical radio station,” said Soriya Estes, KMFA Board Chair. “One of KMFA’s central goals is to increase our community partnerships as a collaborator both inside and outside the Austin arts community. He has a deep understanding of the classical music landscape and possesses the qualities needed to expand and engage our listening audience size and diversity in the coming years in Austin, Central Texas, and beyond.”
Preston commented, “The potential for growth at KMFA is unlimited. The station already has an impressive legacy in one of America’s great music capitals. The gorgeous facility, including the spectacular Draylen Mason Studio, and the dynamic and talented team of staff and board, have KMFA positioned to be a national leader in Classical Radio. I can’t wait to get started!”
