The former Metro Times editor will be inducted along with four other distinguished journalists during a ceremony at Michigan State University.
Heron, who was named managing editor in 1997 and editor in 2006, is stepping down to become a writer for the Kresge Foundation.
Heron (pictured) was promoted from his position as managing editor to replace Ric Bohy, who left the paper two weeks ago. "Kim has had a huge hand in keeping our editorial staff together through many changes over the past few years. He has demonstrated unwavering integrity and has a truly honest work ethic," says Publisher Lisa Rudy in the Metro Times story announcing the change. Heron has been with Metro Times for nine years; he previously worked at the Detroit Free Press from 1979 to 1995. He is also known for "The Kim Heron Program," an FM jazz show that has had a 17-year run.
Larry Gabriel says he left Detroit's Metro Times because he was burned out and wanted to concentrate on writing. W. Kim Heron is acting editor. Gabriel's departure leaves a gap in the thin ranks of African-American editorial staff at AAN papers.
