Jennifer White

What is your position?

I am a station manager for Michigan Television. It is the PBS station for the University of Michigan. I oversee the day to day operations of the station including budgeting. I basically do whatever is necessary to keep the station running smoothly.

What is the most artistic part of your job?

The most creative part of my job is working in the studio when I have time. When I'm in the studio I do stand ups, voiceover work, and even interviews. It is nice when I am given a chance to take part in the creative aspects of television. It is not, however, my primary function as the station manager.

What has inspired you to go into broadcasting?

Originally, I started out studying theater and performance; however my first experience in broadcasting was in radio. I was the Major Gifts Officer for Michigan Radio.

What degrees do you have ?

I went the University of Michigan to get my BGS in English and Sociology.

How much control do you have over what's being seen on television?

Well, collectively with other colleagues we agree on the shows that should be on PBS. I do not choose alone what will be aired. As a PBS station there are certain programs we are required to carry as part of our contract. We do, however, make decisions about shows we think speak directly to our audience but aren't part of the PBS 'must carry' program lineup.

How do you know what people want and create programming to fit that?

We take into account the demographics of our audience. At certain times we have different audiences and so we use this information to create shows to cater to them. For example, at times when children are watching we air shows like Sesame Street. When our adult audience is watching we may air documentaries, news and affairs programs, etc. However, the one thing that we always take into consideration is our own mission as a station. PBS's mission is to educate, entertain, and enlighten. I think we tend to accomplish all three of these things in most shows.

Do you get a sense of accomplishment out of doing your job?

Yes, I feel a great sense of accomplishment in doing my job. There are few places on television where the whole story gets told. I see too often in the news, flashes of stories that never give a thorough description of the events leading up to the incident or what happens afterward. However, public radio and television stations are most responsible to their viewers and listeners and they tend to want the whole story. So that's what we try to do.

How important do you feel these artistic expressions are?

It's very important that I exercise my other artistic muscles outside of my work because I don't always have an opportunity to participate in the artistic aspects of productions in the studio. It keeps me going.

Are you involved with any other kinds of artistic activities?

Yes, I sing, compose, play the piano, do voiceover work, and act when I have time.