Sharon Percy Rockefeller’s Career: The Public Broadcasting Leader Married To Jay Rockefeller

Meet Sharon Percy Rockefeller: The Powerhouse Behind Public Broadcasting

Ever tuned into Sesame Street or Frontline? Well, you've got Sharon Percy Rockefeller to thank for that! This powerhouse of public broadcasting is not just married to a Rockefeller, she's a force to be reckoned with in her own right.

From Washington to West Virginia

Born in Washington D.C., Sharon grew up in a world far removed from the glamour of her famous in-laws. Her father was a journalist, her mother a librarian - talk about a recipe for a lifelong love affair with words and ideas!

After graduating from Wheaton College, she headed to West Virginia, where she met her future husband, Jay Rockefeller. But don't go thinking she was just a small-town girl swept off her feet. Oh no, Sharon had plans of her own.

Broadcasting Her Way

Sharon started her career in broadcasting at WV Public Broadcasting, working her way up from production assistant to news director. She was the first woman to hold that position, breaking barriers like a boss!

In 1980, she co-founded West Virginia Public Television, which became a lifeline for the state, bringing education, news, and culture to every corner. And guess who was at the helm? Yep, our girl Sharon!

Rockefeller Who?

So, about that Rockefeller thing. Sharon married Jay in 1967, and while they might have been from different worlds, their love story is anything but ordinary. Jay was a senator, governor, and even ran for president. But Sharon? She was the one calling the shots behind the scenes, using her influence to champion public broadcasting.

Remember that time she testified before Congress, advocating for increased funding for public broadcasting? Yeah, that was Sharon. She might have been married to a Rockefeller, but she wasn't just a political wife. She was a force in her own right, using her platform to make a difference.

List of past Gazette-Mail West Virginians of the Year | News

Quirky Facts and Fun Details

Did you know Sharon was once mistaken for a maid at a fancy D.C. event? She took it in stride, laughing it off and proving that she's not just a broadcasting powerhouse, but also a total badass.

And here's a fun fact: Sharon's been known to break into song at the drop of a hat. Her go-to? West Virginia, My Home Sweet Home. Now that's a woman who knows how to work a room!

Why We Love Sharon

Sharon Percy Rockefeller is more than just a broadcasting pioneer. She's a trailblazer, a champion of the arts, and a total hoot. She's proof that you don't need a famous last name to make a difference. All you need is passion, drive, and a whole lot of sass.

So the next time you catch an episode of Nova or Austin City Limits, remember to tip your hat to Sharon. She's the one who made it all possible. And who knows? Maybe she'll even break into song for you.