Michael Leary, Instructor Office: Mark Hopkins 215A Hours: Wed.: 6 - 6:30; and by appointment. Phone: 662-5371

Fields: Broadcast media, radio applications

A 1983 graduate of MCLA, with a degree in English/Communications and minor in Political Science, Michael Leary has been an instructor in radio since 1995 and has extensive work experience in both electronic media and public relations. He has served as News Director for WBRK/WRCZ radio in Pittsfield (1991-1996), worked as a news anchor and talk show host for WNAW/WMNB (1982-1988) in North Adams and WBEC in Pittsfield (1978-1982) and was the Berkshires correspondent for several years for WAMC, Northeast Public Radio in Albany, New York. Leary was the President of the Massachusetts Associated Press Broadcasters Association from 1994 to 1996 and also served as Vice President and Secretary of the organization during his tenure in radio.

As a news reporter and talk show host, he was the recipient of numerous honors, including Best Talk Show, Best Continuing Coverage and Best Spot News Coverage awards from both the Massachusetts AP Broadcasters Association and the Massachusetts Broadcasters Association.

Leary has previously worked as a Marketing Technology PR specialist for Media Services Group, the firm that provided public relations services for General Electric’s Plastics Division, was the Director of Communications for Bennington College in Bennington, Vermont and Media Relations Manager for Russell Sage College in Troy, New York. He currently serves as Director of Media Relations for Berkshire Health Systems in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the owner and operator of Berkshire Medical Center and Fairview Hospital, a position he has held since 1999.

Active in civic affairs, Leary serves as Chairman of the City of North Adams Planning Board and Vice Chairman of the city’s Redevelopment Authority.