PHOTO COURTESY WQED

After a nationwide search, WQED today named Jason Jedlinski, a veteran broadcasting and publishing executive, its new president and CEO.

The selection emphasizes the public multimedia company’s commitment to strengthening its community impact and digital transformation, according to an announcement by Millie Myers and Jonathan Rosenson, co-chairs of the organization’s board of directors. Jedlinski will officially take his post in July as WQED’s fifth president.

“We sought input from all of our constituencies. That speaks to WQED’s culture, where everyone has a voice and collaboration is one of our finest strengths,” says Myers, who chaired the search committee. Jedlinski is eager to immerse himself in the Pittsburgh community, from “Primanti sandwiches and the arts and culture in Pittsburgh’s diverse neighborhoods,” she says.  

Jedlinski is arriving from Washington D.C., where he served as the general manager of The Hill, a U.S. political website, and launched a successful streaming channel, setting audience records. He spent almost 25 years growing digital reach and engagement for such media companies as USA TODAY, The Wall Street Journal and WGN Television. 

He replaces Deborah L. Acklin, who stepped down in September 2022 as WQED’s president and CEO after 12 years after being diagnosed with non-smoker’s lung cancer. Acklin was the first woman to serve in this role, taking the position after the retirement of George Miles in 2010.  

“I’m thrilled for this opportunity to sustain and grow WQED’s commitment to its communities and grateful for Deb Acklin’s rich legacy,” Jedlinski said in a press release. “I look forward to expanding WQED’s reach beyond its acclaimed television and radio broadcasts: creating new ways to amplify diverse voices, showcase community leaders, and positively impact the lives of more people throughout southwest Pennsylvania.” 

“Jason is the right leader at the right time, as he brings strategic leadership with a great appreciation for public media. He clearly respects our brand and rich tradition, and he sees the opportunity for expanded digital offerings that will shape our present and future,” Rosenson says.