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Maximilian Duke has been appointed president and CEO of Pennon, the parent organization of WITF, Pennon Education and Media Solutions. PHOTO/PROVIDED BY PENNON
Pennon names new president/CEO in Central Pa.
Maximilian Duke has been appointed president and CEO of Pennon, the parent organization of WITF, Pennon Education and Media Solutions.
The announcement was made by Pennon on Thursday and becomes effective July 20.
“At a time when common ground is critical, the work Pennon does across Central Pennsylvania matters more than ever,” Duke said in a statement. “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.
“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,” added Duke.
According to a release, Duke has over 25 years of public media leadership. He most recently served as vice president of station strategy and development at PBS, partnering with member stations across the country to strengthen local journalism, expand educational initiatives, advance workforce development and deepen community partnerships. Duke’s career includes leadership roles at the national and local levels, including positions with PBS and South Florida PBS, where he helped guide organizational strategy, content innovation and community impact.
Duke succeeds Interim President and CEO Tom Baldrige, who has led the organization since Dec. 8, 2025, following the departure of Pennon’s previous president and CEO.
“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. “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.”
