After more than 40 years of work in journalism and public communications, Mike Zitz has announced his retirement, concluding a career that has spanned national publications, local newspapers, and higher education.
Zitz began his journalism career in 1977 at a newspaper in Arizona, later contributing to publications such as The Washington Post and USA Today. He also served as a writer for Campaigns & Elections magazine in Washington, D.C., and as a reporter and columnist for The Free Lance-Star.
In 2010, Zitz authored Giving it All Away, a biography of philanthropist Doris Buffett. The book, which includes a foreword by Warren Buffett, played a key role in securing a $2 million donation that helped establish Germanna Community College’s Gladys P. Todd Academy.
Zitz joined Germanna Community College in 2007 as the Public Information Officer, where he used his journalism experience to highlight the College’s achievements and mission. Over his 16-year tenure, he was responsible for numerous stories that showcased the impact of Germanna’s students, faculty, and programs in the region.
"Mike has played an important role in bringing attention to the meaningful work being done at Germanna," said Dr. Janet Gullickson, President of Germanna Community College.
As Zitz retires, his work leaves a lasting impression, having shared stories that have connected the College with the community and demonstrated the transformative power of education.