Marblehead’s public access television station, MHTV, is entering a new era with the hiring of Executive Director Brian Hebert, who brings years of community media experience — and local ties — to the role.
Hebert, who started about two weeks ago, has taken the helm at MHTV following the retirement of longtime leader Joan Goloboy.
“Brian is the former executive director of Bedford’s public access cable television studio, and we look forward to a continuation of bringing coverage of local news and events to our subscribers’ televisions and video devices,” said MHTV Board President Bob Peck. “A new chapter begins for MHTV after 15 years of leadership under Joan Goloboy, who will be missed.”
Goloboy had led MHTV since 2011, during which time the station earned numerous prestigious honors, including Best Small Market Station in the Nation and Overall Excellence in the Northeast Region from the Alliance for Community Media.
What’s on?
MHTV provides coverage of local government meetings, sporting events and town happenings, and produces feature stories highlighting programs and residents across Marblehead.
Hebert said he is focused first on learning the station’s operations and building relationships in the community. Because MHTV’s studio at Veterans School was severely damaged in a roof leak, Hebert is set up at the WorkLoft on Spring Street for now.
“I’m meeting people,” he said. “I want to work with community partners and organizations.”
Hebert is looking forward to building on MHTV’s educational initiatives programs with local students, teaching them about cameras, editing and more.
He explained why he thinks community access TV is so important.
“It’s about freedom of speech,” he said. “If you want to make a show about how great your dog is, come in and learn how to use the equipment. If your neighbor doesn’t like your dog, he can come in, too. All you have to do is walk through the door — once we have a door.”
A native of Hingham, Hebert lives in Beverly. He and his wife are expecting a baby soon. His in-laws live in Marblehead, and he’s glad to be closer.
Hebert acknowledged that he is stepping into a role shaped by Goloboy’s long tenure and success.
“Joan did such a good job,” he said. “They are tough shoes to fill. She had a lot of success over the years.”
