TV Santa Barbara Announces New Board of Directors

Erik Davis~Posted On March 31, 2026

TV Santa Barbara Announces New Board of Directors; Gary Dobbins Named Board President

An accomplished, cross-sector board of exceptional leaders signals a new era of strength, credibility, and momentum for local media.

Santa Barbara, CA — March 31, 2026 —TV Santa Barbara today announced the election of a new Board of Directors, including the appointment of Gary Dobbins as Board President, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s evolution as a leading civic media institution in Santa Barbara County.

“This is a transformational moment for TV Santa Barbara,” said Erik Davis, Executive Director. “With a full board in place and leadership that reflects a wide range of expertise and perspectives, we are building the foundation for long-term sustainability, expanded programming, and a stronger role as a civic media hub for our region.”

Gary Dobbins, elected as Board President, brings deep experience in leadership and governance and will guide the Board as TV Santa Barbara advances its strategic priorities, including digital expansion, community partnerships, and new content initiatives.

The newly elected board brings together an exceptional group of leaders from across media, education, public service, and community sectors.

The full Board of Directors was elected as follows:

Board Officers

  • Gary Dobbins, President
  • Tony Ruggieri, Vice President
  • Bijan Ghaemmaghami, Treasurer
  • Emily Zinn, Secretary
  • Jacqueline Reid, Ph.D., Vice Secretary

  • Board Members
  • David Starkey
  • Stephen Pedroff
  • Ben Whaler
  • Jamie Knee
  • William Belfiore
  • Tim Swift
  • David Hefferman

In addition to the Board, TV Santa Barbara continues to expand its Advisory Council, a group of community leaders who provide strategic insight and support the organization’s mission.

Advisory Council

  • Lois Phillips, Ph.D.
  • Justin Gunn
  • James Joyce III
  • Jesse Ward O’Sullivan
  • Lisa Osborn
  • Ken Pfeiffer
  • Paul Vercammen
  • Nicole Young

Together, this leadership structure reflects TV Santa Barbara’s commitment to strengthening local storytelling, increasing access to media tools and platforms, and serving as a trusted source for community-driven content.

About TV Santa Barbara

TV Santa Barbara (TVSB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community media organization that operates Channels 17 and 71. Since 1975, TVSB has provided access to media tools, training, and distribution platforms that empower individuals and organizations to share their stories and serve the public interest.

With studios at 329 S. Salinas Street, TVSB offers members access to video production equipment and electronic media resources that support public dialogue, free speech, and participatory democracy, while fostering local creativity, education, and culture. Learn more at www.tvsantabarbara.org

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