(From Southern News Service)
The next two editions of “Newsmakers” on KGCS-TV will feature the work of longtime host and station general manager, Judy Stiles, who is set to retire at the end of the year.A fixture at Missouri Southern State University for 34-plus years, Stiles has produced and hosted 1,843 episodes of “Newsmakers,”– while interviewing more than 3,300 guests.
“(The show) has been an additional aspect of my job that I have enjoyed over the years,” said Stiles. “I have approached the role of producer and host with the goal of trying to convey information - what would the viewers want to know?”
“It ties right into the community service role of our television station, serving the Joplin region,” she added. “I’ve been fortunate to visit with a wide variety of people, and they have all had unique stories to share. I’ve never had a challenge in coming up with ideas for programs. I work with the interviewing principle of being prepared, listen, while remember the guest is the ‘star’ of the program, not me.”
The first episode, which features Stiles and MSSU’s director of the institute of international studies, Dr. Chad Stebbins - hits the KGCS airwaves nightly at 5:30 p.m. the week of Dec. 20 - and Saturday, Dec. 26 at 5:30 a.m. on KOAM-TV. It’s also posted on the station’s YouTube channel (KGCS Missouri Southern) at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvO1o9p7ACY&t=9s.
The second episode, which features past interviews between Stiles and Gene Taylor, Richard Webster and World War II veterans – will air nightly the week of Dec. 27. It’s also currently posted on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAhdXifWQjA&t=4s.
“My time at MSSU is one where I leave with a lot of memories,” said Stiles. “I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years – both with facilities and campus growth. It’s been rewarding to see the growth and development of students over the years. We’ve always stressed ‘hands-on’ opportunities for students in television. It’s great to see students embrace those chances to try something new and to graduate with the skills and confidence to succeed. Faculty, staff and students have always approached broadcasting as a teamwork effort, and I’ve been proud to be able to help lead that team over the years.”
KGCS programing can be seen on channel 21, and is also available on regional cable television systems such as Sparklight, Mediacom and Suddenlink Communications. The station operates as a service of the Department of Communication at Missouri Southern State University.
Thank you so much for sharing this piece about Judy Stiles. MSSU, it's students, and the community it serves have been lucky to have had Judy doing what she does so well for these 34 plus years. She is the consummate professional. Best wishes to her in her retirement.
ReplyDeleteShe was a great host. She was always prepared and interested in her subject. She will be missed.
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