Jane Helmke ’83 was named executive editor of Minnesota Public Radio News in November 2022.
“I’m so honored to be a part of the inspiring team of exceptional journalists at MPR News at this point in my career,” Helmke said. “Every day, we are working to include and inform all of our audiences across Minnesota, including today’s Auggies! I’m excited to learn how we can connect with and serve these thriving young adults with the news they want and need each day.”
Prior to taking on this lead role at MPR, Helmke worked at NBC affiliate KARE 11 News for 35 years. She started there as an intern during her senior year at Augsburg, and she left as the TV station’s news director.
With her move to MPR, Helmke joined two other Auggies in key roles at one of Minnesota’s largest media organizations.
Jean Taylor ’85 was named the CEO of American Public Media Group, the parent company of MPR, in 2021. Before her work with MPR, Taylor was the board chair of Star Tribune Media, an executive consultant for the Platinum Group, and the CEO of Taylor Corporation.
Andre Griffin ’20 is the community engagement specialist for Carbon Sound, a new music stream from MPR that launched in June 2022 in partnership with KMOJ radio. Carbon Sound, which also includes a website and app, is dedicated to celebrating the wide-ranging influence of Black musical expression.
For Helmke, joining MPR feels like “a wonderful, full-circle moment.”
“Every day now,” she said, “I carry with me the Auggie pride of serving the greater good in our community. MPR News is a place that allows me to live this important value.”
Top image: Minnesota Public Radio News building, downtown St. Paul (Photo by Minnesota Public Radio)
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