Harry Pappas

Honorary Degrees
 
 

Harry PappasHarry Pappas

Founder, Pappas Telecasting Companies

California State University, Stanislaus

Harry J. Pappas is a nationally recognized leader in the broadcast industry, having built from the ground up Pappas Telecasting Companies, the largest privately held commercial television broadcast group in terms of household coverage in the United States. Mr. Pappas has been at the forefront of fledgling networks, including FOX and the WB, and has spotted and taken advantage of market trends, particularly in providing television services to the fast-growing U.S. Hispanic population. His business ingenuity and insights have earned him a reputation that places him in the highest echelons of industry leaders.

Pappas Telecasting’s most recent venture, CommunityCorrespondent.com, holds the distinction of being the first website in the United States that allows America’s citizens to make their voices heard through the Web. It also provides the opportunity to include information for viewing on Mr. Pappas’ television stations’ newscasts.

Harry Pappas was inducted into Broadcasting and Cable’s Hall of Fame, the highest honor in the broadcast industry. His many awards and recognitions include the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor from the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations, designed to honor “remarkable Americans who exemplify outstanding qualities in both their personal and professional lives, while continuing to preserve the richness of their particular heritage.”

Mr. Pappas’ humanitarian spirit is exemplified in two foundations he and his wife, Stella, began in the Greek Orthodox Church that support religious, charitable, youth education and cultural activities. They personally have made contributions to hundreds of worthy causes at schools, community groups, and to the needy.

Born in Modesto, California, Harry Pappas is a model of an engaged person—dedicated to family, community, business and philanthropy. He was saluted for his achievements by being selected to give the keynote address at the 2007 California State University, Stanislaus commencement ceremony.

In recognition of his outstanding business achievements and meritorious service to society, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Stanislaus are proud to confer upon Harry J. Pappas the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

​​