Maryland Public Television: A Deep Dive into MD Public Broadcasting

Maryland Public Television (MPT) plays a vital role in the state’s educational and cultural landscape. As a cornerstone of Md Public Television, MPT offers a diverse range of programming, educational resources, and community outreach initiatives. This article explores the organizational structure, leadership, and various divisions that contribute to MPT’s mission of enriching Maryland communities.

The Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission

The foundation of MD public television rests upon the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission. Appointed by the Governor to five-year terms, the Commission provides oversight and guidance to MPT. The current commission members include:

• Edward H. Kaplan (Chair)
• Richard J. Bodorff, Esq. (Vice-Chair)
• Eleanor K. Wang
• Debra A. Bright, Ed.D.
• Shelly L. Gardeniers
• Rebecca J. Hanson, Esq.
• Lakeisha D. Lashley, Ed.D.
• Elizabeth E. Suarez
• Irwin R. Kramer, Esq.
• Bruce A. Wahl

State Superintendent of Schools, Carey M. Wright, Ed.D., also serves as an ex officio member.

Inside Maryland Public Television: Departments and Leadership

MPT’s operations are divided into several key divisions, each led by experienced professionals. This structure ensures efficient management and execution of the station’s diverse responsibilities within the realm of MD public television.

Office of the President & CEO

Leading MD public television’s MPT is Larry D. Unger, President & Chief Executive Officer. He is supported by a team including:

• Fran Minakowski, Senior Advisor
• Dionne Neblett, Executive Assistant
• Thomas J. Williams, Senior Managing Director of Communications
• Lara Hjortsberg, General Counsel
• Susan Wolfinger Schmitt, Vice-President of Human Resources

Education Division

Dedicated to enriching learning experiences for all ages, the Education Division, a critical component of MD public television, is spearheaded by Vice-President Betsy Peisach. Key areas within this division include:

• Early Childhood Education Services, led by Krista Respass
• Educational Media, with William J. Beustring as Executive Producer
• Pre-K-12 Professional Development, directed by Patricia M. Proutt.

Technology Division

Ensuring MD public television’s MPT’s technical infrastructure remains state-of-the-art is the responsibility of the Technology Division, overseen by George R. Beneman II, Senior Vice-President & Chief Technology Officer. This division comprises:

• Facilities, directed by Samuel A. Mann
• Information Technology Services, led by Kayode Onaolapo
• Production & Maintenance, with Chad E. Hooker as Chief Engineer
• Production Services, managed by Harry Vaughn
• Transmission & Distribution, overseen by Chief Engineer Travys Montague.

Operations and Content

Steven J. Schupak, Executive Vice-President & Station Manager, leads MPT’s Operations division. This includes Creative Services & Digital Studios, managed by Joseph Campbell. The Content Division, crucial for MD public television’s programming, is led by Travis Mitchell, Senior Vice-President & Chief Content Officer and Managing Director, Troy Mosley. Key areas include:

• National Distribution & Marketing, directed by Phillip P. Guthrie
• The Maryland State Ad Agency, managed by Brandon Ruth
• Digital Content & Operations, managed by Eleanor Hong
• Local Production Funding, directed by Linda N. Castrilli
• MotorWeek, with John Davis as Senior Managing Director
• Programming & Acquisitions, overseen by Katherine S. Pearson

Finance, Development, and Audience Engagement

Patricia Fitzhugh serves as Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer, also holding the position of Records Officer. Linda E. Taggart heads the Development Division, responsible for fundraising and community engagement. Kristen L. Penczek leads Audience Engagement for MD public television’s MPT. This division includes:

• Corporate Support, managed by Terri Carpenter
• Digital Fundraising, managed by Jennifer B. White
• Major & Planned Giving, overseen by Erin E. Chrest
• Membership, managed by Vera Turner
• On-Air Fundraising & Development Productions, managed by Eric Neumann.

Maryland Public Television: A Vital Resource

MD public television, through MPT, provides invaluable educational and cultural programming to Maryland communities. From children’s programming to documentaries and news, MPT strives to inform, engage, and inspire its viewers. The dedicated leadership and staff across various divisions work collaboratively to ensure the continued success of this important public broadcasting institution.