05/16/14 sry

HAYS, Kan. -- James C. Bell, Fort Hays State University graduate student, is FHSU's first Tiger Media Network news director.

"In a print world, you'd call him the news editor. In a broadcast world, you'd call him the producer," said Ron Rohlf, assistant professor of informatics.

Tiger Media Network, which went live in fall 2013, combines print, radio, television and Web publication into a "convergent media model." Bell will supervise student writers, photographers, graphic artists, audio/video producers and Web developers.

"I look forward to helping build the organization up and working with the staff," said Bell. "My goals are to help students develop the skills they need and make FHSU a regional media outlet. There is a lot of work to be done, but I plan to do it one step at a time."

Bell graduated from Macksville High School in 2000 and received his undergraduate degree in political science from FHSU in 2007. He worked in business management for six to seven years with various companies before deciding that it was time to make a change. Bell has one more class this summer before he receives has his Masters of Liberal Studies with a concentration in political science.

"The goal is to work in political communication but to keep all doors open," said Bell. He has been involved with Tiger Media all year and accepted the position as news director because it gives him the chance to stay and help build the organization.