LITTLE ROCK, Ark., May 14, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Windstream Corp. (Nasdaq:WIN) has named Randy Nicklas executive vice president of engineering and chief technology officer.

Nicklas will be responsible for network planning and engineering, outside plant, records and capital management.

Nicklas was formerly chief technology officer and senior vice president of engineering for XO Communications, where he was responsible for the overall network technology vision for the company's voice, data, and transport networks. He also advised on the overall design of the company's commercial and wholesale voice, data and IP-based services.

Nicklas has extensive experience in the design, implementation and integration of large-scale IP/MPLS backbones, VoIP soft switch and feature server platforms, metro Ethernet networks and transport networks.

"Randy has a deep understanding of complex telecommunications networks, a wealth of experience leading engineering organizations, and a real passion for excellence," said Brent Whittington, chief operating officer of Windstream. "He will help us take the critical next steps to strengthen our network so that it truly becomes the platform for our long-term success."

Prior to joining XO Communications, Nicklas held engineering and technical management positions at Intelsat, Cisco and MCI. He also has worked in the areas of software development and systems engineering on a variety of aerospace programs for NASA, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Computer Sciences Corporation.

About Windstream

Windstream Corp. (Nasdaq:WIN), a FORTUNE 500 and S&P 500 company, is a leading provider of advanced network communications, including cloud computing and managed services, to businesses nationwide. The company also offers broadband, phone and digital TV services to consumers primarily in rural areas.www.windstream.com.

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CONTACT: Media Contact:

         David Avery, 501-748-5876

         david.avery@windstream.com
Source: Windstream Corporation

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