Edward Leon named CEO of PBS Fort Wayne

PBS Fort Wayne in Indiana named Edward R. Leon president and CEO.

Leon succeeds Bruce Haines, who retired this year after leading the station since 2008.

“As public media faces significant national headwinds, Ed Leon brings exactly the kind of visionary, strategic, and community-centered leadership we need,” said Board President Megan Flohr in a news release. “His passion for inclusive storytelling and innovation in education and digital content will ensure PBS Fort Wayne continues to thrive and serve Northeast Indiana with integrity and impact well into the next decade.”

Leon most recently worked as executive director of Free Speech TV, based in Denver. Before that, he was deputy director and COO of Arkansas PBS from 2018–23.

Leon has also been chief brand officer for the e-learning company The Great Courses in Chantilly, Va., and a senior producer for Dr. Phil on CBS. He held producer roles with Sony Pictures Animation, NBCUniversal, Fox, MTV, Nickelodeon and ABC Television.

“PBS Fort Wayne has long been a vital part of this community, and I’m honored to join its talented team to build on that legacy,” Leon said in the news release. “My passion lies in connecting people through meaningful storytelling, educational content, and community engagement. I’m excited to begin that journey in Fort Wayne.”