— The move follows GM Jeff Tucker’s announced retirement July 4
The Idaho State Board of Education on Wednesday, June 17, selected Scott Graf to serve as the next general manager of Idaho Public Television (IdahoPTV). Graf will replace Jeff Tucker following his retirement in July.
Graf has served as IdahoPTV’s deputy director since 2025, overseeing content and operations. His background includes 12 years in public media and nine in Idaho state government.
“Idaho Public Television has educated and enriched our state for six decades,” Graf said. “I’m honored and grateful to be in a position to help continue the organization’s legacy of service to Idaho through educational content, statewide public safety communications and telling the stories of our state and the people who make it so special. I appreciate the trust the State Board has shown in me and I’m excited to get to work.”
Tucker was named general manager in 2021. His career at IdahoPTV began with an internship in high school. His work included the creation of local shows, production management and overseeing content and operations prior to his appointment as general manager. Outside of a decade running his own production company, Tucker has spent his entire career at IdahoPTV.
“I am grateful for the support of staff, donors, the Friends of Idaho Public Television, Idaho State Board of Education and everyone within state government who has supported (and even questioned) us,” Tucker said. “A greater understanding of all perspectives has helped to make us a better organization over the time I’ve been general manager. I will not forget my friends and colleagues at IdahoPTV. They made me a better person, and I will always be grateful.”
Idaho Public Television is an executive branch state agency under the Idaho State Board of Education.
“Jeff Tucker has been a dedicated steward of Idaho Public Television, helping ensure Idahoans learn the stories that showcase the people and communities that make our state special. I appreciate Jeff’s friendship and years of service to the State of Idaho. He has had a lasting impact on Idahoans across generations," Idaho Governor Brad Little said. "I also congratulate Scott Graf as he takes on this new role. Scott brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the position, and I am confident he will build on Idaho Public Television’s strong foundation.”
“Jeff Tucker’s leadership has strengthened Idaho Public Television's role as a trusted source of educational programming, public affairs coverage and community storytelling that reflects the people, places and issues that shape Idaho,” said Jennifer White, executive director of the Office of the State Board of Education. “On behalf of the Idaho State Board of Education, I want to thank Jeff for his years of dedicated service and the lasting impact he has made on Idahoans of all ages. We also congratulate Scott Graf as he steps into this leadership role. He brings a strong background in communications, journalism and public service, and we are confident Idaho Public Television will continue to inform, educate and tell Idaho's story under his leadership.”
As general manager, Tucker worked closely with the Friends of Idaho Public Television, a non-profit that raises money to support local content and educational programs for families and communities throughout the state.
“The Friends of Idaho Public Television directors are immensely grateful for Jeff's tremendous service to IdahoPTV, from his production days through to his leadership as the general manager,” said Jenny Emery Davidson, president of the Friends board. “He has kept the organization in sound shape through fluid times, and he has infused the work of IdahoPTV with a spirit of joy and a love for the state. We are confident that the vital services IdahoPTV provides the state will continue to thrive under Scott’s leadership.”
Graf’s career has included media roles in Iowa, North Carolina and Idaho. He served as an on-air host, reporter, editor and newsroom manager. He then oversaw communications in the Idaho Attorney General’s Office between 2016 and 2023 and at the Idaho Department of Education from 2023 to 2025.