Austin non-profit radio station KMFA Classical 89.5 has named George Preston as its new CEO, the organization’s board of trustees announced today.
Preston, who is currently VP of Radio and General Manager at WFMT, Chicago, will take the helm at the end of January. He replaces the much-admired Ann Hume Wilson who is retiring after leading KMFA for the past 10 years and heading up a $10.5 million capital campaign for a new building.
“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.”
A native of West Virginia, Preston holds music degrees from Oberlin Conservatory, New England Conservatory, and Boston University. Preston has also worked as GM of Classical KCME in Colorado Springs, Colo., and as a host and music director at WNYC in New York.
“The potential for growth at KMFA is unlimited,” Preston said in a news release. “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.”
