MCM Board Chairman Slavin Issues Statement in Wake of Reineke’s Death
Montgomery Community Media mourns the tragic loss of our leader and friend, Chief Executive Officer Merlyn Reineke. Inexplicably, Merlyn took his own life last night for reasons that were deeply personal.
We knew Merlyn as a charming diplomat who managed to move MCM into the modern age of media with distinctive vision and acumen. For more than 8 years, he provided award winning leadership to one of the country’s largest community media organizations.
Knowing his devotion to MCM, we honor his memory by continuing our mission and sustaining the work of Montgomery County’s most vibrant public access media center.
In the wake of this shocking event, I’ve asked MCM’s board and senior managers to join me in supporting our employees and MCM community during this difficult time. I’ve named Chief Operation Officer Nannette Hobson as interim CEO as we plan our next steps.
We are still in the midst of processing Merlyn’s loss personally and professionally. We thank all who have offered their support and prayers.
Jeffrey Slavin
President, MCM Board
Questions or press inquiries should be directed to Jeffrey Slavin at 202-549-2299 or Nannette Hobson at 919-995-5214.
This is tragic. My deepest sympathies to Mr. Reineke and his family as well as to Jeffrey, Nannette and everyone at MCM.
What a heart break.
Dear sympathy and love to Merlyn’s family. May the Blessings Be.
Susan Baker,
member, MCM Advisory Council
Thank you for your kind words about my brother. He loved his work and coworkers so much. You were his solice and joy. And on behalf of his mother and sisters we thank you for being his friends giving him happiness and purpose during some dark times. God Bless you all!!
I met Merlyn at a number of Alliance for Community Media conferences. We also communicated over a number of years via e-mail and phone. He freely shared his extensive knowledge and experience with myself and others. He was someone I admired greatly. I only knew him professionally, but he was really something special, both as a person and as a highly accomplished professional in the media field. He was so approachable and willing to help anyone. He really made an impression on me. His loss will be felt far and wide. We will miss him.
This news is beyond heartbreaking. I had the great pleasure to work with Merlyn for several years at PBS. He was an extraordinary colleague and was well-liked by all. My sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues at Montgomery Community Media.
I had the privilege of working with Merlyn for 3 years, during that time he changed MCM’s direction and perception in Montgomery County. He was an innovative leader. I am very sorry for his loss and I send all my friends at MCM and Merlyn’s family my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
I only just now found out about Merlyn’s passing! I worked with him at PBS and chatted with him a few times at the Arlington County Fair, where he sold his amazing maps! I did not know him well, but he was such a memorable guy for being so down-to-earth and kind. If possible, please pass my condolences onto his family. And to all of his colleagues at MCM, you lost a really good one. So sorry and so sad…truly.