Early at five in the morning, Kevin Jefferies is already hard at work, bringing us the morning news. Since 2004, Jefferies has been the news director and morning voice of KETR, Texas A&M University-Commerce’s radio station.
After graduating from A&M-Commerce in 2000, Jefferies planned on a career in Television and films. His first job was a boom operator for an independent film.
That experience left him with second thoughts about his future in television.
“It required a lot of hours and networking,” he said. “Others on the project didn’t get to spend time with their families.”
Jefferies then went on to pursue radio, and found that he enjoyed it much more than his television experiences. He was able to combine his love of sports with his technical abilities.
“I like radio production. I prefer it to television,” he said.
After working odd jobs in radio, Jefferies began sports announcing at KETR. Then in 2004, he took the job as news director.
Until recently, he combined two jobs at KETR: gathering and reporting the news for the station and acting as sports commentator for the Commerce Tigers football games every Friday night.
Jefferies spends his busy days in the Performing Arts Center-the same building he studied radio and television as a student. He remembers his long hours in class and practicum.
Former R-TV professor Dr. Gerald Haskins had a strong impact on Jefferies decision to follow through with his career choice.
“He was a great instructor to have,” says Jefferies. “He knew what your strengths were. One of the best things about the program is that you can do what you want to do.”
Employees of KETR admire the unique leadership qualities Jefferies has shown. Mark Chapman is the host and producer of the evening program, “The Art of Sound.”
“Kevin is a true diplomat,” he says of his colleague. “In situations where most would take sides, Kevin finds a positive way to satisfy both sides. He’s a team leader but also a team player.”
Apparently, others have noticed the hard work and talent of Kevin Jefferies. In May 2006, he was named Texas A&M University-Commerce Employee of the Month.