Vermont PBS Board Chair Rob Hofmann announced Monday the appointment of Holly Groschner as president and CEO for Vermont’s statewide PBS affiliate. The Corinth, Vermont, resident expects to take the reins of the public media organization in mid-February. In her new position, Groschner will draw upon a wealth of experience in the communications industry, having most recently served as General Counsel for the Vermont Telecommunications Authority. There, she worked with staff and state legislators to improve public access to broadband and cell phone services across the state.
Newly appointed Vermont PBS President & CEO, Holly Groschner
Said Hofmann, “We are fortunate to find someone with Holly’s level of knowledge and experience to lead Vermont PBS into the future. I know she’s the right fit for the organization. I’m also delighted that she’s a Vermont resident, which makes this selection even more gratifying.”
Vermont PBS serves the state with a mix of quality PBS and local programming, online resources and community activities. In July, the station launched a second high definition channel, Vermont PBS PLUS, which aims to make more local content available to Vermont viewers.
With a background in law and corporate management, Groschner’s previous work experience includes operations at publicly-traded Crown Castle International (NYSE CCI) based in Pittsburgh, projects for The Mountain Institute in West Virginia, and as a partner with the Vermont law firm, Downs, Rachlin & Martin, PC, specializing in telecommunications. Her work with the communications tower industry includes developing commercial terms and compliance standards for new technology. Groschner is a founder of the Womens’ Wireless Leadership Forum and a graduate of Vermont Law School in South Royalton. She is a trustee of the Vermont Arts Council, chairs Corinth’s Planning Commission, and has served on the Vermont Historic Preservation Advisory Council.
Groschner said of her new position: “This is one of the most exciting times for the growth of Vermont PBS when you consider our ability to broadcast digitally via multiple TV stations, and through the web to laptops and mobile phones, plus our stellar team of professionals already in place. I look forward to working with the staff, board and community as we bring Vermont viewers together through great program content.”
Charlie Smith, who has served as the organization’s interim CEO since April, and played an active role in the search process, said, “Holly has a very strong legal and leadership background, deep roots in Vermont, strong connections in state government, a great capacity to learn and a very positive personality. I believe she will be a great leader for Vermont PBS.”
Added Hofmann, “We are extremely grateful to Charlie Smith for his steady hand and enthusiastic leadership during this transition period. He did a fabulous job. Charlie leaves the organization with a very positive outlook for the future. Holly and Charlie are collaborating for a smooth and orderly transition in February. This is a momentous day for Vermont PBS, and for the many Vermonters who benefit from the station’s services.”
Source: Vermont PBS 12.15.2014 vermontpbs.org.