FEATURED MOVER | Vera Turner, MPT

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Maryland Public Television (MPT) announced Vera Turner has been named managing director, membership, in the statewide public television network’s development division.

In this role, Turner is responsible for growing MPT’s membership base, creating a mid-level giving program, and overseeing the network’s sustaining membership and vehicle donation programs.

In her most recent role, Turner was project manager for seven years at The School Superintendents Association where she spearheaded national education initiatives. Earlier, she served as associate director and, later, director of individual giving at the Public Broadcasting Service for 13 years.

As an entrepreneur, producer, and host of her own cable show, Turner garnered 11 Telly Awards for outstanding local and regional cable TV programming.

Turner earned her bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech and holds a master’s degree in public management from the University of Maryland, College Park.

ABOUT VERA TURNER

Resides in:

Alexandria, Virginia

Education:

Master of Arts in public management, University of Maryland, College Park; Bachelor of Arts in urban studies, Virginia Tech

If you had not chosen your current profession, what profession would you choose and why?

A life coach. I am a lifelong learner and public servant at heart. Because of my humble beginnings, I am passionate about giving back to the community and helping others realize their full potential in life. Serving as a life coach is a great way to make a positive impact on society.

Favorite vacation:

My favorite vacation was a trip to Africa inspired by one of my heroes, Nelson Mandela. I visited South Africa and toured the Robben Island prison where Mandela was jailed, and I took in the beautiful scenic views in Cape Town and the historic sites in Johannesburg. During the last leg of my trip, I visited Zimbabwe and witnessed the natural wonder of Victoria Falls. Unforgettable!

When I want to relax, I …:

I listen to soul-stirring gospel, smooth jazz, old-school music and soothing meditation music.

Favorite book:

One of my favorite books is the children’s classic, “Charlotte’s Web.” It was the first book that I fell in love with. It helped me to see the magic and wonder of books and fueled my passion for reading. I’ve read the book many times and given it as a gift to countless young people.

Favorite quotation:

“Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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