Gray Media Announces Retirement of Two Esteemed Managers
ATLANTA — Gray Media (NYSE: GTN) recently announced notable retirements of two distinguished broadcasters, marking a significant transition for the company. Laura Long in Monroe, Louisiana, will retire from her role as General Manager of KNOE, with her retirement effective immediately. Rick Dean will similarly step down as the General Manager of KXII in Sherman, Texas, by the end of the year.
The Career Journey of Laura Long
Laura Long launched her television career 35 years ago in Monroe after graduating from the University of Louisiana Monroe. Her career commenced at Cablevision in 1992, where she steadily advanced to the position of General Sales Manager. In 1999, she transitioned into the role of Local Sales Manager at WUPL, a CBS owned-and-operated station in New Orleans. Her remarkable career continued with a promotion to General Sales Manager at WTOG in Tampa.
Long's dedication and hard work culminated in her appointment as VP/Station Manager/Director of Sales at WTOG in 2006, and later as VP/General Manager in 2010. In 2014, she returned to her roots in Monroe to become KNOE's VP/General Manager, joining Gray Media. Under her leadership, KNOE achieved numerous broadcasting awards and consistently maintained its status as the number one station in the Monroe/El Dorado market. Laura’s impact is profound; she fostered a culture of learning that has propelled many aspiring journalists and broadcasters into thriving careers.
The Legacy of Rick Dean
Rick Dean has a rich history in the media sector, beginning his career in 1979 at a radio station in Oklahoma City. His six years in radio paved the way for a transition to television. Dean joined KXII-TV in 1985, where he worked through several ownership changes until Gray took over the station in 1999. Over the years, he successfully held various roles, including Account Executive, Assistant Sales Manager, and ultimately, General Manager in 2002.
Throughout his tenure at KXII, the station garnered numerous accolades from the Oklahoma and Texas Association of Broadcasters, and received prestigious honors including three Regional Edward R. Murrow awards. Gray Media acknowledges Dean's invaluable contributions to the community as well as the impact he made mentoring countless team members over his impressive 45-year career.
A Message from Leadership
Gray’s Chief Operating Officer, Sandy Breland, expressed appreciation for both Laura and Rick, noting their embodiment of the leadership quality and commitment to excellence that Gray Media values across its stations. “On behalf of Gray, I thank them for their years of service and wish them the best in their retirement,” said Breland.
Future Plans for Gray Media
As Gray Media embarks on this new chapter, the company is dedicated to seeking well-qualified successors to maintain the legacy of KNOE and KXII. Both stations have solidified their positions as cornerstone institutions in their respective markets, ensuring that they will continue to thrive in the evolving media landscape.
About Gray Media
Gray Media, formerly known as Gray Television, Inc., is one of the largest multimedia companies in the United States, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The company proudly operates the most extensive array of top-rated local television stations and digital assets across 113 television markets, reaching approximately 36 percent of U.S. television households. Gray owns and operates a total of 77 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with either the highest or second highest rated television stations. Notably, Gray has built the largest Telemundo Affiliate group, serving 43 markets and almost 1.5 million Hispanic television households. Further expanding its reach, Gray Media also owns Gray Digital Media, which delivers innovative digital marketing strategies to a diverse client base.
Gray Media encompasses video production companies like Raycom Sports and Tupelo Media Group, in addition to studio facilities such as Assembly Atlanta. The company’s commitment to excellence is demonstrated through its comprehensive service offerings in both traditional and digital media landscapes.
Gray Contact
Sandy Breland, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, 404-266-8333
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the prominent broadcasters retiring from Gray Media?
Laura Long and Rick Dean are the two veteran broadcasters retiring from Gray Media.
What roles did Laura Long and Rick Dean hold?
Laura Long was the General Manager of KNOE in Monroe, while Rick Dean served as General Manager of KXII in Sherman.
What recognition did KNOE and KXII achieve during their leadership?
Both stations received numerous awards in broadcasting, maintaining strong positions in their respective markets.
What is the future plan for Gray Media after their retirement?
Gray Media aims to find qualified successors to lead KNOE and KXII, ensuring their continued success.
How does Gray Media stand in the industry?
Gray Media is recognized as one of the largest multimedia companies in the U.S., operating numerous top-rated local television stations.
