Before the news is shared publicly on Monday, I wanted you to hear it directly from us: Gary Stokes, our longtime President and General Manager, has announced his plans to retire at the end of this year.
Gary has been a steady and visionary leader at KSPS PBS for 14 years and has spent a lifetime in broadcasting, including years at Alabama Public Television and other stations across the country. Under his leadership, KSPS PBS has grown into a stronger, more innovative, and more deeply rooted organization than ever before.
With Gary at the helm, we’ve seen the launch of streaming and then livestreaming, the introduction of PBS KIDS 24/7, and the successful reimagining of our brand and strategic plan. He guided us through a global pandemic and championed the creation of vital local initiatives like Career Explore NW, Inland Sessions, and Civics Bowl. He also established our Education Department, helping us reach students, families, and educators with trusted PBS resources throughout the Inland Northwest and Canada
Gary’s calm leadership, fiscal prudence, and unwavering belief in the power of public media to educate and connect have brought KSPS PBS to national recognition and positioned us for continued success.
While we’ll deeply miss his presence, we’re also excited to celebrate his legacy over the next six months and to carry his vision forward. The Board of Directors is actively working on a transition plan, including the appointment of an interim leader and a national search for our next General Manager. The future of KSPS PBS remains bright.
As someone who shares our belief in the value of public media, your continued partnership means the world to us. We’ll have more to share in the months ahead, but for now, we simply wanted to thank you for being part of this journey and assure you that the mission you support so generously is as strong and vibrant as ever.
With gratitude,
Skyler J. Reep, MSNPA, CFRE (he/him)
Director of Development (and Sustaining Member)