KCBX, the public radio station serving San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Southern Monterey Counties, has hired Marisa Waddell as its new Director of Programming and New Media.

In her position, she will coordinate traditional radio programming on KCBX's network of FM broadcast frequencies. In addition, she will lead efforts to develop new content on digital media.

Waddell is no stranger to KCBX audiences. She began as a volunteer host on KCBX while studying broadcasting at Cuesta College. She worked at KKUS in San Luis Obispo and then received her bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications and Film from San Diego State University. While in San Diego Waddell was a classical music announcer at KPBS FM. Upon her return to San Luis Obispo in 1990, she became the Classical Music Director at KCBX Public Radio. She also produced, wrote, edited and hosted a local issues radio magazine, "Audio Excursions," and contributed news stories to the statewide news program, "The California Report."

Waddell left KCBX in 2006 to pursue her Master's degree in Mass Communication and Journalism at California State University Fresno. In the years since, she has worked in film and television production and international educational media as a producer, writer, director and editor of video documentaries, digital content and educational material.

Marisa has also played a vital role in the success of KCBX's Live Oak Music Festival. As a volunteer she has chaired the Booking and Programming Committee for the last 10 years, working tirelessly at assembling outstanding lineups of musical acts that have delighted and surprised audiences.

Marisa describes herself as "passionate about radio and deeply committed to KCBX. In a way, I have been preparing for this specific job for my entire career."