Schumacher named publisher in Athens, Tenn.

Jeff Schumacher has been named publisher of The Daily Post-Athenian and The Advocate & Democrat in Monroe County (Athens, Tenn.). He succeeds Rhonda Whaley, who had served as publisher since 2014.

Schumacher joined The DPA, The Advocate & Democrat, and The Herald-News in Rhea County in January as regional advertising director, a position he will continue to hold in addition to his duties as publisher of The DPA and The Advocate & Democrat.

Schumacher began his journalism career as a sports reporter before moving into the advertising side of the business. He has served as a publisher for various newspapers over the past 15 years.

"The value of a newspaper to a community is immeasurable. If you want to find a community that's not doing really well, just find one without a newspaper," Schumacher said. "I'm honored to work with the staff of The Daily Post-Athenian and Advocate & Democrat to serve the needs of our readers, advertisers and communities at large."

Carl Esposito, president of APG Media of Tennessee/North Carolina, parent company of The DPA, said, "We are deeply grateful for Rhonda Whaley's long-time service to The DPA and her many contributions to its success over the years. Likewise, we are happy to have someone as experienced and accomplished as Jeff Schumacher to succeed her."