Ken Harty recognized as Master of Media
By Karrie Carlson, Daily Journal Media
Daily Journal Media and Madison Daily Leader Publisher Ken Harty has been selected as a recipient of the Masters of Media award from Editor & Publisher, nationally recognized authoritative source on news media.
This prestigious recognition honors accomplished professionals over the age of 50 who elevate journalistic standards and help to ensure the sustainability of news media. The careers of individuals honored with the award have shaped and are shaping the news landscape.
Harty holds his job of publisher with pride and views it as a chance to bring the communities he serves together through journalism.
"The most important thing for me is working with the community and our awesome employees to create great journalism and marketing opportunities," Harty said. "Each day presents new opportunities for both of those aspects and we need to engage the community as much as possible."
Harty joined Wick Communications in October 1992, when he worked in several departments of the Daily News in the Wahpeton/Breckenridge communities. In 2002, he began serving as assistant advertising manager at the Daily Iberian in New Iberia, Louisiana, and in 2006 was elevated to the role of advertising manager of the Daily Herald in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. In 2007, he returned to be publisher of his hometown newspaper in Wahpeton. In late 2016, he became the publisher of Herald in Williston, North Dakota, and moved closer to home, becoming the publisher of Daily Journal Media in 2019. In May 2024, he added publisher of the Madison (South Dakota) Daily Leader to his resume, further extending his knowledge and experience. Among these relocations were stints within the company as a group publisher overseeing publishers throughout the Midwest region, taking on publisher duties New Iberia in addition to remaining in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and various other tasks to assist Wick Communications at various office locations.
Wick Communications President and CEO, Josh O'Connor was thrilled, but not surprised by Harty’s recognition of excellence.
”Wick Communications extends our sincerest congratulations to Ken Harty on being named one of E&P's Masters of Media. Ken’s leadership and dedication have been essential to our success in Fergus Falls and other markets, and we're delighted to celebrate this achievement with him," O'Connor said, directing the remainder of his statement directly to Harty. "We are grateful to call you a colleague and are inspired by your commitment to exceptional journalism and community service.”
Having spent the entirety of his career with Wick Communications, Harty has been a steady champion for local, rural journalism. When nominated, Harty was described as someone who develops his employees into media professionals, with an eye for talent and passion, and as having an attitude that keeps staff engaged and excited about the industry.
Daily Journal Media General Manager Heather Kantrud reflected on her time working with Harty and the insurmountable industry knowledge she has gained from him.
“When certain individuals are repeatedly turned to within a company to help with special projects, or for insight on decision-making on various scenarios that fall outside of their general purview, I feel that it speaks highly of the type of employee they are and the expertise that they can bring to the table,” she expressed. “Not only have I witnessed Ken Harty step into that profile on a regular basis, but I have the honor of working with him in both Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and Madison, South Dakota.”
Kantrud said Harty believes in developing his staff and helping them reach their highest potential. He sees what people can achieve and helps them reach their goals.
“He has not only done so with me, but with many others. He is the type of boss that most never have the opportunity to have, and I feel incredibly lucky to have him as a mentor,” she added.
When Harty learned of his nomination and selection for the award, it was unexpected: "When I received the email that I had been selected, I was surprised, for sure, because I didn't even know I was nominated. It's a great honor and I am grateful to be receiving this designation."
E&P's coverage of the recognition is available online at editorandpublisher.com/stories/eps-masters-of-media-2025,255026.
