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Julie Grimes Named Executive Director of Texas Tech Public Media

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ecutive-director-of-texas-tech-public-media.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 19:15 GMT by Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

Lubbock, TX - February 1st, 2026 - Texas Tech University has officially named Julie Grimes as the Executive Director of Texas Tech Public Media, solidifying her position as the permanent head of the university's vital NPR and PBS stations. The announcement, made this morning, follows Grimes' successful tenure as interim director and signals a renewed commitment to public broadcasting in West Texas and beyond.

Grimes brings a wealth of experience garnered from years of leadership roles at Texas Public Radio, making her a natural fit to guide Texas Tech Public Media through a rapidly evolving media landscape. Texas Tech President Satish Lobo praised the appointment, stating, "Julie's extensive experience in public media makes her the perfect fit for this role. She understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing public broadcasting and has a clear vision for the future of Texas Tech Public Media."

This appointment isn't simply about maintaining the status quo. It represents a strategic move by Texas Tech to reinforce its dedication to providing high-quality, non-commercial programming to the South Plains and to cultivate a deeper connection with the communities it serves. Public media, and particularly NPR and PBS, have faced increasing pressure from commercial interests and the proliferation of digital content. Grimes' leadership is expected to be crucial in navigating these challenges and ensuring the continued relevance and financial stability of the stations.

Grimes herself expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, "I'm honored to lead Texas Tech Public Media and build upon its legacy of quality programming and service to the community." Her vision, as outlined in a press briefing following the announcement, encompasses three core pillars: enhanced programming, fostered community connections, and strategic growth.

Expanding Programming - A Focus on Local Storytelling

Grimes highlighted the importance of diversifying programming to better reflect the rich cultural tapestry of West Texas. While maintaining a commitment to nationally recognized NPR and PBS content, she plans to significantly increase local programming - documentaries showcasing regional history, interviews with local artists and innovators, and coverage of issues directly impacting the community. This includes exploring partnerships with local schools and organizations to create educational content tailored to the needs of students and families. A pilot program, tentatively titled "West Texas Voices," is already in development, aiming to highlight the stories of individuals often unheard in mainstream media.

Strengthening Community Bonds - Beyond the Broadcast

Recognizing that audiences consume media in increasingly diverse ways, Grimes is prioritizing initiatives to extend Texas Tech Public Media's reach beyond traditional broadcast channels. This includes a revamped website and mobile app offering on-demand content, live streaming, and interactive features. She also plans to expand community engagement through events, workshops, and partnerships with local organizations. A key component of this strategy will be establishing "Community Listening Posts" - dedicated spaces in libraries and community centers where residents can access resources, attend screenings, and participate in discussions about important issues. The goal is to transform Texas Tech Public Media from a broadcasting entity into a true community hub.

Driving Strategic Growth - A Sustainable Future

Securing the long-term financial health of Texas Tech Public Media is a paramount concern. Grimes' experience in fundraising and station management will be crucial in diversifying revenue streams and attracting philanthropic support. She intends to pursue grant opportunities from foundations dedicated to public broadcasting, cultivate relationships with individual donors, and explore innovative sponsorship models that align with the station's non-commercial mission. Furthermore, she plans to leverage the university's resources and expertise to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. A detailed strategic plan, outlining specific financial goals and fundraising initiatives, is expected to be unveiled in the coming months.

Grimes' appointment arrives at a critical juncture for public media nationwide. With funding increasingly uncertain and competition from commercial outlets intensifying, leaders like Grimes are essential to ensuring the survival and continued success of this vital public service. Her proven track record, combined with her ambitious vision for Texas Tech Public Media, positions the station for a bright future. The university is confident that under her leadership, Texas Tech Public Media will not only continue to provide valuable programming but will also serve as a catalyst for community engagement and a beacon of information in a complex world.