For Bowling Green attorney Mike Owsley, supporting KET isn’t just about a monetary donation; it’s a personal commitment. A longtime member of KET’s Commonwealth Fund board, Owsley has watched for decades as the network has connected Kentuckians through education, news and storytelling. 

“I’ve been a supporter of KET for many years,” he said. “What they do in terms of public affairs programming – Comment on Kentucky, for example – is extremely valuable. It’s informative, it’s fair – Kentucky Tonight is one of the best programs going anywhere. [KET’s] public affairs coverage gives people the opportunity to hear unbiased discussions about what’s happening in our state.” Continuing, he adds, “it’s so important to be educated about these issues. KET gives you what you need to know in an unbiased, impartial manner. You just come away a much better-informed citizen.”   

I recently made the decision – I’m doubling my contribution from last year, and I challenge others to do the same.

Mike Owsley

Owsley believes that KET’s strength lies not only in public affairs but in education, an area where the network’s reach has been transformative. “It provides resources to schools and teachers all across Kentucky, particularly in rural areas that don’t have the same access to materials. The programs they produce and distribute have helped raise the level of education in this state.”  

“It also brings education into the home. There are a lot of parents who can’t always help their children with schoolwork, and KET is like a second teacher in the room. It teaches in a way that’s easy to understand and enjoyable about the world and about what they need to know to become successful as they grow up.”  

“KET serves a hugely valuable purpose in the state,” Owsley said. “It reaches people who might not otherwise have access to the same opportunities for education or information.” 

Owsley recognizes this is why the Kentucky state legislature established KET more than 60 years ago and why continued support from the state is essential. However, he also acknowledges funding challenges due to the elimination of federal funding and the impact this is having on the network. 

“That loss [of funding] affects the very programming that keeps Kentuckians informed and educated. But we’re not going to give up, we’re going to dig in and fight harder.” 

For Owsley, giving to KET isn’t simply about maintaining an institution; it’s about preserving a lifeline of access and understanding for generations of Kentuckians. It is so important that we not lose some of these programs for the next generation.” 

He’s taking the challenge personally, too. “I recently made the decision – I’m doubling my contribution from last year, and I challenge others to do the same,” adding, “we have 30-plus lawyers here at [our firm in] Bowling Green. I know they all share my support and belief that KET serves a hugely valuable purpose in this state.”  

Doubling his contribution and advocating for others to do the same reflects a simple message and mission. “I’m a big supporter of KET. It’s something we have to support.”