Skoler to lead interactive media at PRI

Public radio news veteran Michael Skoler will join Public Radio International as v.p. of interactive media on June 1. Skoler, founding director of American Public Media's Center for Innovation in Journalism, established the Public Insight Journalism model for tapping listeners' expertise in news reporting. His earlier reporting career included stints at NPR as African bureau chief, science correspondent and science editor/producer.

At PRI Skoler will develop interactive strategies for PRI programs and spearhead new digital content initiatives. "I've learned that culture is even more important than strategy for success in today's networked media world," Skolar said in a statement. "PRI has both — a creative, risk-taking culture and clear-eyed strategy for creating value."

And this from Melinda Ward, PRI senior v.p. of content: "Michael is a true innovator, and his pioneering approach to interactive media and global journalism will thrive at PRI."