She’s the former Content Director of Chicago’s Vocalo “Nu Jazz” and “Urban Alternative” service linked to WBEZ who resurfaced in November 2023 as Program Director for an Rocky Mountain Public Media (RMPM) audio service. Now, she’s been promoted to VP of Radio.
Taking the role, which sees her expanding her duties with new oversight of Class C1 Jazz-formatted KUVO-FM 89.3 in Denver is Ayana Contreras.
She’ll continue serving as Program Director of KUVO HD2 “The Drop,” found on K284CI at 104.7 MHz in central Denver, with programming focused on diverse R&B and hip-hop.
“Ayana is a pioneer in urban alternative public radio, and we are thrilled to welcome her into this new role,” said Amanda Mountain, President and CEO of Rocky Mountain Public Media. “Her extensive expertise and vision will be instrumental as we expand our community impact and reach new audiences under her dynamic leadership.”
“The Drop” was launched in 2019, while KUVO’s Jazz format dates to 1984.
Flo Hernández-Ramos, Founder and Former CEO of KUVO JAZZ, commented, “Ayana’s leadership will build on the strong foundations laid at both KUVO and The Drop, elevating them to even greater heights. We are thrilled about what the future holds under her vision. She is the natural successor to the historic path forged by former VP of Radio, Tina Cartagena.”
