Columbia Center for Oral History Portal > Oral history interview with Richard D. Heffner, 2011Biographical NoteRichard D. Heffner (1925-2013) was University Professor of Communications and Public Policy at Rutgers University, creator of the prize-winning television show The Open Mind, and the first general manager of WNET (Channel 13). Prior to that appointment, he had a broadcasting career at NBC, ABC, and CBS. Heffner was a key figure in establishing standards for the Motion Picture Association of America's film ratings. From 1974-1994, Heffner served as Chairman of the Board and Administrator of the motion picture industry's voluntary classification and ratings system. Heffner was author of numerous books and publications including Documentary History of the United States. He was editor of an edition of Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America and co-author of Conversations with Elie Wiesel
Scope and ContentsThis interview with Richard Heffner focuses largely on his careers in the broadcasting industry and academia. Some topics covered include Heffner's youth and family, his academic interests, media personalities, his experiences with network broadcasters, Channel 13, the Open Mind, and his musings on journalism. While the interview was intended to compliment an earlier interview that extensively covered Heffner's involvement with movie ratings, this interview also touches on this subject
SubjectsAccess ConditionsCopyright by The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York, 2013
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