NATCHEZ — Kevin Hardy has been named regional advertising director for Boone Newspapers, assuming responsibility earlier in the past week for advertising and marketing at The Natchez Democrat, natchezdemocrat.com and affiliate publications in Brookhaven, Prentiss and Vicksburg. 

A native of Pennsylvania, Hardy most recently worked as regional advertising director at The Times News/Lehigh Valley-Press in the region near Allentown and Easton, Penn. He has worked in several capacities at newspapers across the country since first becoming involved in the newspaper business by delivering newspapers in his youth.

“I look forward to the opportunity to serve this community,” he said.  “Our work will build upon the strong foundation of this newspaper and I join a great team already in place at the newspaper. Connecting local businesses with our audience in new and unique ways will help their cash registers and doorbells ring.”

Hardy and his wife, Pamela, have two children, an adult son and a daughter in high school. His wife and daughter plan to stay in Pennsylvania temporarily to finish school.

“We are pleased to have Kevin join us and lead our advertising teams,” said Kevin Cooper, vice president of Boone Newspapers and publisher of The Democrat. “Kevin’s unique experience, deep understanding of marketing and his strong work ethic make him a great addition as our new team leader.

In addition to his Natchez duties, Hardy will lead the advertising and marketing teams at The Vicksburg Post, The Daily Leader in Brookhaven and The Prentiss Headlight, all affiliate publications with Boone Newspapers.

Hardy graduated from Millersville State College in Millersville, Penn.

His work has won numerous awards and accolades including winning the best revenue idea award three times at the Interstate Advertising Managers Association. He has been involved in the management of the Pocono YMCA as well, serving on the board of directors and the executive board.

Hardy is a former high school wrestler and enjoys NASCAR racing.

He can be reached at 601-445-3547 or by email to kevin.hardy@natchezdemocrat.com