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Howard Blumenthal
Founder, Kids on Earth; Host, Co-Executive Producer, Reinventing School
Professional Background
Howard Blumenthal is a prolific creator, producer, and educator renowned for his contributions to children's educational media and global citizenship initiatives. Best known for his ingenious work as co-creator and producer of the widely popular PBS series, "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?", Howard has adeptly merged entertainment with education, sparking curiosity in learners of all ages while championing an understanding of geography and cultures around the globe. With decades of experience in media, he has held numerous leadership roles, from senior vice president positions in major media organizations to executive leadership at educational foundations. This unique blend of creativity and leadership, coupled with his focus on technology and behavioral change, illustrates his commitment to facilitating social change and human progress.
Blumenthal's interests extend into the realms of how children and teenagers learn in the modern age, the role of global citizenship in education, and the importance of curiosity-led learning. He is an advocate for utilizing technology to enhance educational experiences for the youth of today, believing firmly that play and imagination are essential in driving the learning process. His insights into these areas have not only influenced his work in children's media but also enriched various educational programs and initiatives aimed at engaging young minds in a rapidly evolving world.
Education and Achievements
Howard Blumenthal's academic journey is a testament to his commitment to education and community engagement. He has studied as a Senior Scholar at the Positive Psychology Center at The University of Pennsylvania, where he explored the impact of positive psychology on learning. Additionally, he has served as a Visiting Scholar at The Annenberg School for Communication at the same university, focusing on strategies to connect children and teenagers globally.
With a robust background in communication, journalism, and education, evidenced by his BA degree from SUNY Geneseo, Howard has a rich foundation that informs his creative endeavors. He also honed his artistic skills at Parsons School of Design - The New School, where he studied drawing and painting. Howard's contributions to academia include co-teaching a graduate-level course centered on community engagement through media and creativity at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
As an advisory board member of the UNESCO Chair on Global Understanding for Sustainability at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, he has worked to promote sustainable practices in a global context. His role as a Fellow at The RSA (Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce) has further strengthened his dedication to enhancing social equity and fostering innovation through arts and education.
Notable Achievements
Howard Blumenthal's career is adorned with significant achievements that underscore his impact in the media and education sectors. As co-creator and senior producer of "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?", he revolutionized children's educational programming by blending entertainment with learning. This series not only captivated audiences but also set a precedent for how educational content can engage and inspire curiosity.
In addition to his influential work in creating content for children, Howard has held leadership roles at various media organizations, including serving as the Executive Director and President of NJN (New Jersey Network) and leading at Independence Media/MiND TV as CEO. His tenure at New Century Television and Bertelsmann as Senior Vice President for Marketing and Media showcases his expertise in media management and strategic development.
Furthermore, Blumenthal's commitment to community and global engagement is illustrated through his founding of Kids on Earth—an organization dedicated to fostering a sense of global citizenship among youth. His insights into public media consulting and global citizenship education, particularly during his transitional role at UPenn, have proven invaluable in designing curricula and initiatives that resonate with today's younger generations.
As an accomplished writer, he has also contributed his thoughtful perspectives as a syndicated newspaper columnist for the New York Times Syndicate and United Feature Syndicate.
In summary, Howard Blumenthal’s impressive career reflects a passionate commitment to education, creativity, and social impact. His vision for global citizenship and innovative approaches to learning continue to serve as an inspiration for educators, creators, and learners alike. His multifaceted experience and dedication to nurturing curiosity in children ensure that he remains a key player in the quest for educational excellence and global understanding.
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