A veteran newsman and former Associated Press bureau chief has been named the director of West Virginia University News and Information Services.

John A. Bolt, who served months-long stints as both the assistant director and interim director of the unit, will assume the new position immediately.

Bolt, a graduate of Clemson University, spent 22 years working as an editor and manager for the Associated Press, most recently as the West Virginia state bureau chief.

“I’m so pleased about John’s appointment as director of WVU’s primary news and media relations unit,” said Becky Lofstead, assistant vice president for communications. “He’s an experienced journalist and news manager whose leadership will be key as we continue to connect with our audiences through traditional, social and emerging media. Further, his energy, dedication, character and vision make him the ideal person for this position.”

As director, Bolt will continue to plan and manage the work of News and Information Services – part of University Relations – developing story ideas, new media vehicles and distribution models; reaching out to core audiences; fielding media inquiries and advising University communicators.

“It’s exciting to be at WVU during this time of growing momentum,” Bolt said. “I love to tell the stories of this University – and there are many, many good ones to talk about. I look forward to sharing them with an ever widening audience.”

-WVU-

04/22/10