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A Letter From The Executive Director - Shawn Black

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Dear OETA Family,

I am writing to you today with immense pride and gratitude to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA) and Chief Executive Officer of Friends of OETA. Last week, the Boards of OETA and the Friends of OETA selected me to lead both organizations.

As a dedicated member of the OETA team since 2018 and having served most recently as the Interim Executive Director, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact this organization has on our state. OETA is more than just a television network; it is a vital platform for lifelong learning, trusted information, and Oklahoma storytelling.

For decades, your viewership and support have been the very foundation of our success. It is your generosity that allows us to fulfill our core mission: to provide essential educational content and services that inform, inspire, and connect Oklahomans across all 77 counties.

Looking ahead, the programming your support makes possible is truly outstanding. We have some exciting shows coming, like the highly anticipated Ken Burns The American Revolution and The Forsytes. We are also looking forward to reconnecting with you directly as we host a "live" pledge event in the spring.

Whether it's providing award-winning PBS KIDS programming, delivering trusted, in-depth local news, or sharing our state's unique culture, everything we do is powered by community partners like you.

As I step into this role, I am committed to a vision of continuity and growth, leveraging my experience in finance and operations to ensure OETA 's stability and future success. My focus will be on strengthening the essential services OETA provides, including:

  • Expanding our educational reach for students, educators, and families,
  • Innovating our programming to reflect the diverse voices and stories of Oklahoma.
  • Ensuring our statewide network remains a reliable source of public safety and emergency information.
  • Expanding our digital and streaming offerings.

 

I look forward to the opportunity to meet many of you in the coming months, hear your thoughts, and personally thank you for your commitment to public media in Oklahoma. It is a true honor to lead this cherished organization, and I am excited to work alongside you as we write OETA’s next chapter.

With sincere appreciation,

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Shawn Black

Executive Director, OETA / CEO, Friends of OETA