UF names an accomplished broadcaster new director of its multimedia properties

February 11, 2010

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications has named a highly accomplished broadcaster to direct its newly restructured Division of Multimedia Properties.

Starting April 5, new Executive Director Randall C. Wright will oversee public television and radio stations WUFT-TV/FM, WJUF-FM and WLUF-TV, and commercial properties WRUF-AM/FM, along with their Web operations.

“Randall brings the kind of experience, energy and vision that will guide our media properties to achieving their full educational and programming potential,” said Dean John Wright, who is no relation. “Of all the searches with which I’ve been associated, I’ve never seen such unanimous support from faculty, staff and the community for one candidate.”

Randall Wright has filled media ownership, senior management and industry leadership positions throughout his career in television, radio and new media. He served as chairman of the Missouri Broadcasters Association in 2006-2007 and has been involved in numerous community and charitable organizations in Missouri. He’s also the longtime public-address announcer for the University of Missouri men’s basketball and football teams and served in the same capacity for the NFL’s St. Louis Rams in 2009.

“I view this as an extraordinary opportunity to be a part of what is likely the most unique media environment in America,” Randall Wright said. “The combination of non-commercial and commercial television, radio and new media coupled with the high energy environment of one of America’s leading and largest academic institutions equals something I knew I had to be a part of.”

Randall Wright earned a master’s degree in journalism, focusing on media management, from the UM School of Journalism. He also received a bachelor’s degree in general studies, including management and communications, from UM.

“I truly believe all of my professional, academic and personal experiences in life have brought me to UF and the great people I look forward to working with,” Randall Wright said.

The college is a national leader in the professional education of future journalists and other communication practitioners. It offers undergraduate programs in advertising, print and broadcast journalism, public relations, and telecommunication; and graduate programs in science/health communication, media law, political communication and international communication.