The Association of Independents in Radio (AIR) Announces 2024 Board Election Results
NEW YORK, NY (January 29, 2025)—The Association of Independents in Radio (AIR) is pleased to announce the results of its 2024 Board elections. Incumbent Chioke I’Anson has been re-elected for a second term, while Ruxandra “Rux” Guidi joins as a newly elected member. Both will serve a three-year term through March 2029.
This election is pivotal for independent audio professionals navigating a challenging media environment. "From layoffs to newsroom closures, the life of a freelance producer has grown increasingly precarious. AIR wants to ensure that independent voices do not get left behind as media changes, and we need a board that can continue to push for that future," said AIR Board Co-President Emily Kwong.
Meet the Newly Elected Board Members
Dr. Chioke I'Anson (he/him) – Director & Founder, VPM + ICA Community Media Center, Virginia Commonwealth University
Dr. Chioke I'Anson is founder of RESONATE Podcast Festival and Director of Community Media at the VPM + ICA Community Media Center in Richmond, VA. He's also an underwriting voice for NPR. Chioke's voice has been heard on many podcasts, including The 11th, Love + Radio, Radiolab, and Everything is Alive.
Ruxandra "Rux" Guidi (she/her), Writer & Editor & Producer. Fonografia Collective & Homelands Productions
A veteran journalist and independent editor, Guidi is president of the board of Homelands Productions and a columnist for High Country News. She also serves on the board of El Tímpano, amplifying the voices of Oakland’s Latino and Mayan immigrants.
The expertise and guidance of Chioke I’Anson and Ruxandra Guidi come at a crucial time, as AIR continues to champion fair pay and professional support for freelancers. Earlier this year, AIR partnered with Tape Syncers United (TSU) to integrate TSU’s rate recommendations into its industry-standard Rate Guide, reinforcing equitable pay structures across the field.
"This year's election highlights how much our members care about AIR's future," said Keisha Salmon, AIR’s Executive Director. "We are thrilled to welcome Ruxandra Guidi’s fresh perspective while continuing to benefit from Chioke I’Anson’s steady leadership. Together, we'll continue to push boundaries and create meaningful opportunities for audio creators everywhere.”
While the power of audio storytelling and podcasting continues to make its mark in the media landscape, the industry continues to experience ripple effects of economic downfalls. "The contribution of active audio professionals, like our recently elected board members, assists us [AIR] in helping identify the needs of our membership and the audio community at large,” said AIR Board Co-President Kim Fox.
The newly elected board members will officially assume their roles in March 2025, working closely with current board members to ensure a smooth transition and set strategic priorities for their term.
For more information, visit airmedia.org.
Media Contact:
Emily Kwong, AIR Board Co-President
Host of NPR’s Short Wave and LAist’s Inheriting
[email protected]
About the Association of Independents in Radio (AIR)
The Association of Independents in Radio (AIR) is a network of more than 1300 independent radio and podcast professionals, including producers, editors, engineers, and journalists. Since 1988, AIR has advocated for fair pay, work conditions, and professional development in the audio industry.
###