Morris Publishing Group names Rona Johnson publisher of MPG Alaska
Rona Johnson has been named publisher of Morris Publishing Group Alaska, encompassing the Alaska Journal of Commerce, Alaska Equipment Trader and the Alaska Star weekly newspaper. The appointment was announced by Les Simpson, regional publisher for Morris Publishing Group, LLC, and publisher of the Amarillo (Texas) Globe-News.
"With Rona's leadership and the great staff of the MPG Anchorage products, I'm excited about what the team will be able to accomplish," Simpson said. Johnson will start work in the publisher's post Jan. 2.
"We are very pleased to have Rona on board with our MPG Anchorage properties," said William S. Morris III, chairman and CEO of Morris Communications Co. LLC. "Her background in business and community publications will be a great asset to our operations as we serve the community in many ways."
Johnson's media career began at Agweek magazine where she held several positions including reporter and editor. She has held editorial positions at the Grand Forks (N.D.) Herald, BBI International and most recently served as special publications manager for Forum Communications.
"I look forward to working with Morris Publishing Group and the staff at MPG Alaska," Johnson said. "I have been in journalism for nearly 25 years and my enthusiasm for the industry is just as strong today as it was when I started. It is especially exciting with the advent and growth of social media and digital publications."
Johnson has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Dakota. She is active in her community, having served as a board member for Valley Heath in Grand Forks, and has participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. She regularly speaks about journalism at events, job fairs and classroom programs throughout the North Dakota region.
Keywords
Johnson, Morris, Morris Publishing Group, Simpson, Alaska
