WGTE Public Media Announces Dr. Adam Fineske as New President and CEO

WGTE Public Media today announced the appointment of Dr. Adam Fineske as its new President and CEO, effective August 1, 2026. A lifelong Toledoan who grew up just blocks from WGTE’s headquarters in South Toledo, Fineske brings more than 25 years of education and civic leadership in Northwest Ohio to the role, succeeding interim President Dale Thornton.

Fineske currently serves as Superintendent of Ottawa Hills Local Schools, a position he has held since 2019. Before joining Ottawa Hills, he served as Superintendent of Sylvania Schools from 2017 to 2019, capping a 19-year progression through the district that included roles as Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment, elementary principal and assistant principal. He began his career as a classroom teacher and has also served as an instructor of educational administration at Lourdes University and Bowling Green State University.

Fineske holds a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago, a Master of Education in Educational Administration from the University of Toledo and a Bachelor of Education, also from the University of Toledo. He is a recipient of the 20 Under 40 Toledo Leadership Award and was named Sylvania Schools Educator of the Year in 2006.

“I couldn't be more excited for this new challenge and career opportunity. Public media and public education run on the same fuel — a belief that informed, connected communities are stronger communities,” said Dr. Fineske. “I have given my career to that idea in Northwest Ohio classrooms, educational leadership positions, and through service on many community boards and foundations. I am now ready to keep doing it from this new position. WGTE has been part of the fabric of this region for more than 70 years. I do not take that lightly and am honored by the opportunity to continue moving this organization forward with even more success.”

Olivia Summons, Chairperson of the WGTE Board of Directors, said the board conducted a thorough search and found in Fineske a leader whose values and vision align closely with WGTE’s mission. Fineske and his wife Kate, Executive Director of the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, have three children and are active in the regional community.

“WGTE depends on the support of our community, and in Adam we have a hometown leader whose local roots and relationships will help carry the station forward,” said Summons. “The board is confident in the continued growth of Northwest Ohio public media as WGTE heads into its 75th year.” 

The board also recognized outgoing interim President Dale Thornton, who will return to his previous role as a member of the WGTE Board.