Pat Mitchell

One of the most influential leaders in media, Pat Mitchell knows a great deal about the risks, responsibilities, and rewards of leadership. The former President and CEO of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), she is the first woman and first producer to serve as CEO of the nation’s largest and only non-commercial broadcasting service. Currently, Mitchell is president and CEO of The Paley Center for Media (formerly The Museum of Television & Radio), where she has worked to rebrand the 34-year-old institution for the changing media landscape.

With Mitchell at the helm, PBS rejuvenated its programming while strengthening its commitment to serve the American public. It thrived with an unprecedented number of awards for an innovative combination of fresh programming, strategic partnerships, and public service initiatives.

Mitchell has built a distinguished career as a former network correspondent, award-winning producer, Turner/Time Warner executive, college-level educator, and outspoken advocate for women’s and environmental issues. Cited by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the "most influential female executives in the entertainment industry," Mitchell continues to break ground in leadership and media with energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to explore innovative and creative ideas.

Mitchell serves on the boards of Bank of America, the Sundance Institute, and the Women’s Leadership Board of the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. She is one of the founding members of the American chapter of Mikhail Gorbachev's environmental organization, Green Cross International, and is a member of the US-Afghan Women’s Council.

A voice of experience, Mitchell offers a dynamic, engaging vision of leadership, highlighting women’s issues and the role of media in shaping ideas in society.