Suzanne Klopfenstein Announces Retirement after Over Three Decades at Cox First Media
Suzanne Klopfenstein's Retirement Marks a New Era for Cox First Media
Cox First Media has recently announced the retirement of Suzanne Klopfenstein, who has dedicated an impressive 32 years to the company. Her departure will take effect on June 30, 2025, marking the end of an era for an organization that has relied heavily on her vision and leadership.
Suzanne's impact on Cox First Media cannot be overstated. Throughout her tenure, she has been a pivotal figure in driving innovation and fostering a strong connection between the media outlets and the communities they serve. Under her guidance, Cox First Media has not only thrived in the traditional aspects of journalism but has also adapted to changes in the digital landscape, enhancing audience engagement.
Spencer Boice, Vice President of Digital Media at Cox Enterprises, commented on Suzanne's retirement, stating, "Suzanne has been a driving force behind the success of Cox First Media for decades. Her leadership and passion for local journalism have left a lasting legacy. We wish her the very best in her well-deserved retirement."
Following Suzanne’s departure, Rob Rohr has been named as the incoming President and Publisher of Cox First Media. A Dayton native with extensive experience in media, Rob will be stepping into his new role while still collaborating with Suzanne to ensure a smooth transition. His background includes serving as Market Vice President for Cox Media Group, where he oversaw the successful integration of several media brands and was instrumental in increasing audience engagement.
In an enthusiastic statement about his return, Rob said, "Returning to Cox First Media feels like coming home. I'm honored to lead this team and continue serving our communities with trusted journalism while embracing digital innovations that help us grow and evolve."
With a clear focus on strengthening local journalism, Rob's new role will encompass overseeing operations, editorial direction, and business strategies across both print and digital platforms. His dual expertise in media leadership and business development positions him uniquely to navigate the industry’s evolving landscape successfully.
Rob Rohrer holds an MBA from the University of Dayton and his commitment to the community is evident through his active involvement in local initiatives aimed at mentoring entrepreneurs and promoting innovation. His arrival signals a new chapter for Cox First Media, which has been a trusted source of journalism for over 125 years, reaching more than half a million readers weekly.
As Cox First Media looks to the future, its mission to engage audiences and connect them with relevant news remains steadfast. The evolution of digital products has become a priority as the organization adapts to meeting readers' needs in an increasingly online-driven world.
Suzanne Klopfenstein’s considerable contributions during her time at Cox First Media will be remembered fondly, serving as an inspiration for those continuing the work she has influenced. With Rob Rohr at the helm, the company is set to enhance its role in the community while continuing a proud legacy of journalism.
The partnership with Cox Enterprises solidifies the company’s prominence in not just media, but also in emerging fields such as renewable energy and healthtech. By focusing on innovation, Cox First Media aims to lead the charge in developing future-ready journalism that resonates with audiences today.