Newhouse hires new general managers for WAER, Orange Television Network

The Newhouse School announces the appointment of two new general managers: Chris Bolt at WAER and Meg Craig at Orange Television Network.

Chris Bolt ’89, G’95

Bolt has has covered the Central New York community for 30 years and served as WAER’s director of news and public affairs since 1995. His work has appeared on NPR, CBS, ABC and other news networks, winning numerous local and state journalism awards.

Throughout his career, Bolt has trained, mentored and provided a platform for growth to more than a thousand Syracuse University students seeking careers in broadcasting.

“I am excited and honored to be able to lead WAER Public Media forward as we continue to serve our audience and fulfill the mission of our students’ professional development,” Bolt says. “I have devoted my career to public radio and to teaching aspiring broadcasters and journalists. I am fortunate to be able to continue working with a staff that has extensive experience and commitment to the same missions.”

Bolt says he plans to continue covering and fostering collaborations in the community, and to expand opportunities through the station’s connection to the Newhouse School that will “enhance student learning and growth in a changing media environment.”

WAER serves the greater Syracuse area with NPR and local news, eclectic music and SU sports. The station has long been the training ground of choice for aspiring broadcasters from the Newhouse School, and it officially became part of the school last year.

“WAER will continue to thrive in Chris’ capable hands” says Newhouse dean Mark J. Lodato. “I look forward collaborating with him on the ongoing integration of the station and the school for the benefit of our students.”

Meg Craig

A lifelong journalist, Craig joins Newhouse from Syracuse.com, where she focused on online content and covered politics and government affairs. She was formerly a reporter and national/foreign content editor for the Chicago Tribune.

Craig has also served as an adjunct in the Newhouse School’s magazine, news and digital journalism department, and last year assisted students as they created a CitrusTV special report, “Faculty Under Pressure,” that went on to win a Syracuse Press Club award. She assumes the role from founding director Andy Robinson.

“I’m thrilled to move into this role at Newhouse, working alongside our students to help elevate their content and the entire network,” Craig says. “Andy has left big shoes to fill—he created OTN out of nothing and spent nearly 20 years helping students produce their best work. But I’m excited for the challenge of taking it to the next level and getting more students involved in the process.”

Orange Television Network (OTN) features student-produced programming seen on the air 24/7 throughout the academic year, viewable in all campus buildings and residence halls, and live online. Shows include campus comedy, sports, dance and music performances. Craig will will manage the technology, students and content distribution resources and work in association with other content distribution entities across the Newhouse School, including WAER.

“This is an exciting new chapter for OTN, as we reimagine its role in the education and professional training of our students,” Lodato says. “I know Meg will be an excellent partner and leader in this endeavor. I look forward to working with her.”