Bigger man on campus

Steve Edwards

Steve Edwards

There is life after radio for Steve Edwards — and it keeps getting better.

The former Chicago Public Media star, who hosted “The Afternoon Shift” and “Eight Forty-Eight” on WBEZ FM 91.5, has been named executive director of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics. Edwards most recently was deputy director for programming at the public policy and public service institute founded and led by David Axelrod.

“Thrilled to welcome Steve Edwards, whose thoughtful show was a staple on Chicago public radio, as new exec director of @UChiPolitics,” Axelrod tweeted Thursday.

Edwards, 42, who’d also served as director of content development and program director at WBEZ, resigned in September 2012 after 14 years at the station to help launch the nonpartisan institute, which began in January 2013.

“As a member of our core leadership team, Steve has been instrumental in building the institute through a diverse array of robust programming and internship opportunities, enabling UChicago students to interact with policymakers and scholars across the political spectrum and explore careers in the public arena,” Axelrod said in a statement. “His creativity and hard work will help us in the essential task of inspiring the next generation of leaders.”

As executive director, effective March 31, Edwards will oversee the institute’s programs and staff, secure grants and strengthen strategic partnerships in and outside of the university. He succeeds Darren Reisberg, who was named secretary of the university’s board of trustees.

Of his new role, Edwards said: “I’m excited by the opportunity to build on the tremendous momentum we’ve established so far and I look forward to working with the team to offer programs that enrich our political discourse and inspire the next generation of political and public service leaders.”