Chief Development/Marketing Officer, East Tennessee PBS

Barbara Shipley

With over 25 years of experience in the media industry, Barbara Shipley is a distinguished figure who has traversed the realms of commercial marketing for network television, helping launch a new network and national newspapers, where, among many accomplishments, she created a nationwide network of websites to help mom's navigate parenthood. Her remarkable journey led her to East Tennessee PBS, where she currently serves as the Chief Marketing and Development Officer. In her seventh year at the station, Barbara is an unwavering advocate for the transformative power of public media in educating, inspiring, and uniting people from all walks of life.

Barbara possesses a remarkable talent for strategic thinking and an engaging personality that has allowed her to master the art of forging connections between East Tennessee PBS and the diverse community it serves. She takes immense pride in the partnerships and philanthropic relationships she has nurtured, resulting in significant financial support for projects that leave a lasting impact. Her accomplishments include spearheading campaigns and initiatives that have raised substantial funds to advance the essential work of local public media, furthering its mission.

Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Barbara Shipley was honored with a PBS Development Award for innovation. Her commitment to personal and professional growth led her to graduate from the PBS CSPI training program and serve as a mentor in the CSPI Mentor program for two years. She currently holds a position on the NETA MARCOM Council, exemplifying her dedication to advancing public media nationally.

Beyond her professional commitments, Barbara also extends her influence to the community. She serves on the board of the East Tennessee Veteran's Council and holds the position of president on the board for the Metro Drug Coalition in Knoxville, Tennessee. Her unyielding commitment to her community, her station, and the cause of public media shines brightly through her active involvement.

Barbara Shipley's reputation as a fundraiser, advocate, and mentor inspires all who aspire to champion public media and their communities. Her dedication, strategic acumen, and unwavering passion for the cause have rightfully earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community.