Maryland Public Television is a not-for-profit, state-licensed public television station which serves the citizens and communities of Maryland and beyond through a variety of broadcast and nonbroadcast activities.
MPT's local/regional television credits include several state-focused programs on civic and public affairs, as well as a variety of original performance, documentary, and entertainment offerings for the citizens of Maryland.
Beyond broadcast, MPT creates instructional videos, develops training, and builds Internet sites that serve tens of thousands of students, teachers, and child-care providers annually. MPT outreach activities, especially relating to arts, culture, and history, take place in all areas of the state to further fulfill MPT's mission to engage, enlighten, and entertain.
The centerpiece of MPT's service to Maryland educators, students, and families is Thinkport, a mega-Web site that offers online teaching resources, professional development opportunities and digital technology tools to assist educators while connecting schools and families via important information and ideas.
Maryland Public Television has earned awards ranging from television Emmys™ for its quality productions to government citations for its volunteerism and educational accomplishments.
MPT employs approximately 170 individuals and operates with a budget of approximately $30.3 million (FY06). Based in Owings Mills, MPT was established as an independent agency of the state of Maryland in 1969; at present, it derives about one-third of its support from the state.
Since 1969, MPT has broadcast an analog signal from transmission towers throughout Maryland, and now provides digital transmission as well. In February 2000, the station's first digital signal began from MPT's transmitter in the Annapolis/Crownsville area.
MPT has been led by Robert J. Shuman, president and chief executive officer, since 1996. It operates under the auspices of the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission and benefits from the support of an affiliated 501(c)(3) organization, the Maryland Public Broadcasting Foundation, Inc.
Last Update:
October 3, 2005
