Local TV professional joins WGVU management

Longtime television professional Jay Lowe has been named assistant general manager of WGVU Public Media. Lowe had most recently served as operations supervisor at WZZM-TV in Grand Rapids. 

Lowe began his career at WLNS-TV in Lansing. In 1986, he joined WZZM-TV, directing award-winning newscasts, telethons and a wide variety of sporting events. He was promoted to management in 1992. 

Lowe received his master's degree from Grand Valley and his bachelor's degree from Michigan State University.

"I’m thrilled to be joining such a talented team of professionals at WGVU Public Media," said Lowe. "To be a part of an organization that has provided a long history of excellence, from educational programming to special events and so much more, is very exciting for me."

Lowe is an EMMY Award winner and five-time winner of the Michigan AP Award for Best Live Sports. He is also experienced with the art of mounting tons of steel and neon lights atop a single pole — some would know this as the WZZM 13 Weatherball. 

“I’m extremely pleased we were able to attract Jay to WGVU Public Media,” said Michael T. Walenta, WGVU Public Media general manager. “He has an enormous amount of management experience, has worked in the corporate business environment and brings a lot of experience with strategic planning. We are excited to welcome Jay to the award-winning WGVU team.” 

Lowe replaces Ken Kolbe who became general manager of CMU Public Broadcasting in July.