AUGUSTA, Ga. - Martha Jean McHaney has been named corporate director of human resources for Morris Communications Corp.

In her new position, McHaney will be responsible for all human resource programs and policies, benefits administration and training. She will assume her duties in Augusta March 27.

"Martha Jean has a rare combination of education and experience that will be a wonderful asset as we continue to strengthen our human resources program," said William S. Morris III, chairman and CEO of Morris Communications. "We look forward to her arrival in Augusta."

McHaney is currently vice president of human resources at The Wichita (Kan.) Eagle. Throughout her career, she has held executive positions in human resources at The Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and The Denver Post, and in corporate administration for Westward Communications.

McHaney holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in English from Arkansas State University and a juris doctorate from the University of Arkansas School of Law.

Morris Communications is a privately held media company with diversified holdings that include newspaper and magazine publishing, outdoor advertising, radio broadcasting, book publishing and distribution, and computer services.