Bruce L. Christensen was born in Ogden, Utah. He graduated from the University of Utah and furthered his education with a master’s degree from Northwestern University. His early career as a reporter started at KSL, taking him to WGN News in Chicago, and later brought him back to KSL.
Christensen then worked as the general manager of KBYU and subsequently at KUED and KUER FM at the University of Utah. In 1982, he assumed the presidency of the National Association of Public Television Stations, followed by his appointment as president and CEO of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 1984. During his nine-year employment at PBS, Christensen oversaw the development of numerous influential programs, including The Civil War, Eyes on the Prize, and several children’s programs.
In 1993, Christensen became the dean of the Brigham Young University College of Fine Arts and Communications, a role he held until 2005. Later, he joined Bonneville Broadcasting, where he became President of KSL radio and television and eventually oversaw all Bonneville broadcast properties in Salt Lake City. Christensen retired in 2009 but continued to contribute to education by serving as the interim dean at Utah Valley University’s School of the Arts.
Outside his professional life, Christensen spent time with his wife, Barbara, and their four children. His commitment to community service extended to various business and civic boards. Despite his career in broadcasting and education, Christensen maintained a deep connection to journalism, viewing himself at heart as a journalist. Christensen passed away on November 18, 2022.
