Holly Groschner, president and CEO of Vermont PBS, is retiring from the station effective June 30.
Steve Ferreira, appointed by Groschner in September as the station’s COO, will assume the role of interim CEO following a vote by the board of directors. The station’s board has also formed a search committee to find Groschner’s successor.
“We thank Holly for her dedicated service, leadership and vision,” said Marguerite Dibble, Vermont PBS board chair, in a news release. “When Holly joined Vermont PBS, she agreed to stay for three years. Five years later and now stronger than ever, the Board and Staff of Vermont PBS look toward our next chapter of service to Vermonters.”
Groschner, who became the station’s leader in 2015, oversaw growth in audience, membership and local programming, according to the release.
Her notable achievements as CEO include leading the station’s 2019 change in headquarters, growing membership by more than 4% and implementing the sale of spectrum for $56 million. She also led a collaboration with Vermont Public Radio to cover local elections.
Groschner began her professional career as a judicial clerk for the Vermont Supreme Court before becoming a partner and principal for Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC. She was later VP of legal for Crown Castle International, an owner of communications towers, before serving as general counsel for the Vermont Telecommunications Authority from 2011–15.
“It has been an honor to serve Vermont PBS,” Groschner said in the release. “As my talented colleagues respond to COVID-19 with educational programming, cultural entertainment and trusted information, the strength and relevance of Vermont PBS is clear. I know Vermont PBS will continue to embrace the digital future, connecting our community and engaging audiences in exciting new ways. I encourage everyone to join me in supporting this vital educational and cultural service.”