LEXINGTON, Kentucky — Shae Hopkins, executive director and chief executive officer of Kentucky Educational Television (KET), died October 29, the network announced. She was 69, according to public-media publication Current.
In its October 30 announcement, KET said Hopkins had worked at the statewide network for 40 years. She had announced plans to retire at the end of 2026.
KET credited her leadership with expanding local productions, educational resources and production facilities in its August retirement announcement.
America’s Public Television Stations also issued a statement October 30 recognizing Hopkins’ work in education, public safety and public broadcasting advocacy.
Funeral arrangements were pending, KET said. Its death announcement did not name an interim leader.