David McGowan to retire as CEO of WJCT Public Media

David McGowan will retire as president and CEO of WJCT Public Media in Jacksonville, Fla.

McGowan’s last day at the station will be March 31. The station said in a news release that it has been planning for McGowan’s retirement since January.

“Serving WJCT Public Media through this period of growth has been a tremendous honor. Everything we’ve been through these last eight years has only strengthened my belief in the power of public media to bring people together,” McGowan said in the release. “WJCT Public Media is such a precious community asset, and I am grateful to have helped guide it during such an interesting time in our industry and in our region. I look forward to working with our Board during this transition.”

McGowan has led the dual licensee since January 2018. During his tenure, the station launched Jacksonville Today, a newsletter and online journalism platform; expanded coverage of environmental issues; and oversaw the launch of the new broadcast and podcast programs What’s Health Got to Do With It?, Bygone Jax and Untold Stories.

Before joining WJCT, McGowan was CEO of Invitel, a telecommunications company in Hungary. From 1992–99, he was SVP of news, public affairs and program production for WETA in Washington, D.C. He was also director of media development at Time magazine.

“David is a world-class executive; we have been fortunate to have him as our President and CEO,” said Bill Hendrich, chair of WJCT Public Media’s board of trustees. “He is a remarkable leader, whose vision and strategic guidance inspired us all to reimagine how this organization can serve the community. We are grateful for his many years of exemplary service to our mission, and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.”