Maximilian Duke named CEO of WITF parent organization

Maximilian Duke will take over as CEO of Pennon, the parent organization of WITF in Harrisburg, Pa., the organization announced Monday. 

Former CEO Ron Hetrick resigned in October. Duke begins in the role July 20. 

“For more than 60 years, the community has come to expect public media that serves the people through local journalism they can trust, education that reaches across generations and stories that reflect their lives,” Duke said in a press release. “That is what Pennon has built, and I am honored to join this team and work together to shape the future of this organization. I cannot wait to get started.” 

Duke was most recently VP of station strategy and development at PBS. He was also a VP at  South Florida PBS.

“Max has deep experience across both the national and local public media ecosystems and brings strategic, future‑focused and collaborative leadership to Pennon,” said Pennon Board Chair Leigh Horner in the release. “His expertise in digital innovation, education program development and community building made him a clear choice for this role. His commitment to public service and inclusive, results‑oriented leadership aligns with Pennon’s mission and future direction and positions us for our next chapter of innovation and growth.”