Named Executive VP Of Communications

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) tells ANN that Karen Gebhart was recently named executive vice president of communications for the pilot advocacy group. In her new position, Gebhart is responsible for communicating AOPA's message to members, the media, and the non-flying public.

"For nearly 15 years, Karen has worked for AOPA in marketing, products and services, and non-dues revenue," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "She has a firm understanding of AOPA's mission and how to effectively communicate our messages to members as well as the public."

As head of the Communications division, Gebhart is responsible for AOPA publications, including AOPA Pilot and AOPA Flight Training; AOPA e-publishing, including AOPA Online and weekly e-mail newsletters; public and media relations; and the creative services group.

Previously, Gebhart was AOPA executive vice president of non-dues revenue, which included publications advertising and products and services for AOPA members. She was also senior vice president of membership, with responsibility for membership acquisitions and retention as well as member service.

Before joining AOPA, Gebhart was vice president of Barry Blau & Partners, an advertising agency in Baltimore, MD where she was Account Director on Blau's programs for AOPA.

At AOPA, Gebhart has been instrumental in the growth of AOPA membership, expansion of the Member Products and Services programs, the development of AOPA's Project Pilot program, and the assessment and purchase of AOPA Flight Training magazine.

Gebhart joined the AOPA staff in 1994 as vice president of membership marketing, where her responsibilities included the development and oversight of direct mail and advertising campaigns to help attract and maintain AOPA members.

Gebhart is a private pilot and holds a business degree from Iowa State University.

FMI: www.aopa.org