After 30 years of service, WCQS News Director David Hurand is set to leave March 31, 2016.
David joined WCQS in 1986 when it was still a start up. In the years since, the station has become a trusted and respected source of news and information in Western North Carolina.
Reflecting on his career earlier this week David said, “More than 30 years ago my wife and the first of our three sons moved to Western North Carolina. It was my good fortune to meet two women, Barbara Sayer and Pat McGuire, who opened the door for me to become News Director at a new, community licensed, public radio station. I have been blessed to have had one of the most unique and stimulating jobs any journalist could ever imagine. My work has enabled me to meet people from all walks of life. It’s been my pleasure to interact with WCQS listeners who are dedicated, motivated, and extremely generous; listeners who made me a better journalist.”
“I have often said radio should be fun, and for nearly all of my years with the station it has indeed been a joyful ride. I also want to give a shout out to my talented and dedicated WCQS colleagues. My life has been enriched by our shared-work experience. I believe WCQS, under the leadership of station General Manager and CEO David Feingold, is perfectly positioned to continue to grow and become an even more vital part of the fabric of our region. I have truly loved my job. How many of us can honestly make such a claim?”
According to General Manager David Feingold, WCQS will begin a nationwide search for a news director immediately. He points out that Hurand’s contributions to the success of the station have been significant, “David exemplifies public radio’s philosophy and values by dedicating his considerable journalism talents to fostering a climate of civil conversations about the issues and events that are important to the people of Western North Carolina. He’s a key member of our staff and a caring member of the Asheville community.”
WCQS Program Director Barbara Sayer who has worked with Hurand throughout his tenure says, “When David first came to WCQS we were a small, start-up station – barely able to reach Asheville, with few resources other than creative, hardworking people and old equipment. David’s contributions to the growth of our service to the region - both in geography and content - have been tremendous. His keen intellect, curiosity and reporting skills have served the WCQS community in so many ways. He’s been a trusted colleague, a true friend and a funny office-next-door companion for 30 years – and I will miss him.”
The WCQS staff and Board of Directors ask that listeners and community members throughout Western North Carolina join them in thanking Hurand for his service and wishing him well.
