Graham Holdings - GHC STOCK NEWS

Viad Corp (NYSE: VVI) has announced the appointment of Beverly K. Carmichael as an independent director, effective February 21, 2022. With over 30 years of experience in senior roles across various industries, including hospitality and technology, Carmichael will also serve on the Human Resources Committee. Her extensive background includes previous board service at Leaf Group (NYSE: LEAF) and advisory roles in hospitality tech. Chairman Richard H. Dozer expressed confidence that her expertise will greatly benefit Viad's growth strategy.

Louisiana State University (LSU) has partnered with Kaplan to introduce Kaplan Credegree™ programs for student-athletes in over 15 areas, enhancing their job readiness and marketability. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between athletic competition and career prospects, addressing the reality that fewer than 2% of NCAA athletes compete professionally. Credentialing programs include Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner, among others. This partnership marks LSU as the first college athletics department to adopt such programs, emphasizing the institution's commitment to student-athlete development.

NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health and Residential Healthcare Group have entered a joint venture to enhance home health and hospice services in the greater Chicago area, serving over 4.2 million residents. This collaboration will create one of the largest home health and hospice providers in Northern Illinois, integrating existing clinician groups and focusing on innovation and patient experience. The transaction is expected to finalize by the end of February 2022, further solidifying the partnership's commitment to delivering exceptional care.

Kaplan's executive director, Isaac Botier, commented on major changes to the SAT, marking significant updates in the exam's nearly 100-year history. Key modifications include a transition to a digital format and a reduction in exam duration from three hours to two. Botier noted that these changes are student-friendly and positively received by test takers. Despite recent trends of colleges suspending standardized test requirements, a strong SAT score remains beneficial for applicants, as indicated by Kaplan's survey showing 61% of test-optional schools value competitive scores. Kaplan will adapt its services to support students amid these changes.

Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC) has announced a quarterly dividend of $1.58 per share. This dividend is set to be paid on February 17, 2022, to shareholders on record as of February 3, 2022. The announcement reinforces the company's commitment to returning value to its shareholders.

Emily L. Barr, CEO of Graham Media Group, will retire later this year, with Catherine Badalamente appointed as her successor. Under Barr's leadership, the group achieved record earnings and numerous awards, transforming it into a leading local media operator. Badalamente, who has been with the group since 2000, played a key role in digital initiatives and has led award-winning projects. Timothy J. O’Shaughnessy praised Barr's contributions and expressed confidence in Badalamente's ability to guide the company through changing industry dynamics.