Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – April 24, 2024 – The City of Jonesboro announced today that they have hired a new Director of Communications. The City’s full press release is below.

Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver announced the selection of Donna Malone as Director of Communications for the City of Jonesboro. Malone’s experience includes broadcast news in radio and television, marketing, public relations, finance, social media and community relations.

A native of Blytheville, Malone is a graduate of Arkansas State University with a Bachelor of Science from the College of Communications earning a degree in Radio-Television. Her most recent employment was newsgathering, writing, producing, and announcing for East Arkansas Broadcasting. She served as Chief Marketing Officer for Farmers and Merchants Bank, headquartered in Stuttgart. Prior to moving to Stuttgart, Malone was the news director, anchor, and reporter for KAIT-TV in Jonesboro.

“I’m honored by this opportunity to serve the community I’ve loved for decades,” said Malone. “The talented staff in the Jonesboro Communications Department is extraordinary and I look forward to engaging with all facets of the community.” Malone’s background in communications, marketing and finance on local, state, and national levels is an asset to the director position.

“The width and depth of Malone’s experience made her a great choice for the Communications Director position,” stated Copenhaver. “Her background in radio and television, as well as her history in Jonesboro, provides exactly what we need to lead the Communications Department. The Communications Department is a critical tool for transparency and educating the community on city business. I look forward to Donna’s ideas on how we can make advancements in this area.”

Malone’s first day as Director of Communications is set for Monday, April 29.

The announcement comes six weeks after the previous Director Bill Campbell resigned after a controversial photo circulated online. Campbell sent a letter of resignation to city leaders on March 8:

Dear Mayor and Chiefs,
I am pained by the embarrassment I have caused you, as well as the good name of the City of Jonesboro. You all have my highest respect, as do the many directors, coworkers, and good staff who compose the City of Jonesboro government. Because of the situation I alone have put you all in, I am extending my resignation immediately, with full respect to the offices you represent, and the city I have grown to call home the past eight years. You have my undying support and loyalty. And my memories will focus on the many accomplishments and good times we had over the years. My heartfelt best to you all, and please pass that sentiment along to everyone at the City.
Sincerely. Bill Campbell