Arkansas PBS CEO to step down - Current
Courtney Pledger, who has led the state network since 2017, expanded original productions and support for K–12 education.
current.org
Arkansas PBS announces executive director's departure next month | Arkansas Advocate
Courtney Pledger approached the Legislature multiple times to defend the network while it was under scrutiny.
arkansasadvocate.com
Yes some of the reasons Courtney Pledger is resigning is because of the funding disputes the Arkansas PBS CEO and board had to face with the Arkansas State Legislature and Governor over funds.
In the past few years, Arkansas PBS has faced legislative obstacles to its ability to spend its money. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Jonesboro, has been the Legislature’s most vocal critic of Arkansas PBS, and he unsuccessfully tried to reduce Arkansas PBS’ spending authority in the 2022 and 2024 fiscal sessions.
Arkansas PBS’ funds include approximately $5.8 million from state general revenue, $2.5 million from the federal Corporation for Public Broadcasting and $1.7 million in private donations, agency Chief Financial Officer Jason Kunau said in February.
Arkansas PBS’ spending authority has repeatedly faced resistance in the Arkansas House. Appropriations need approval from three-fourths of lawmakers, and PBS’ fiscal year 2026 appropriation required five attempts to get 76 House members’ support.
Earlier this year, Pledger urged lawmakers not to abolish the Arkansas Educational Television Commission, which oversees Arkansas PBS’ programs and finances. A proposed law from Sullivan would have moved the commission’s powers and authorities to the state Department of Education; Arkansas PBS is already under the department’s umbrella but operates independently.