Betty-Jo Cugini

Betty-Jo Cugini has been with the University of Rhode Island since 2010, serving as a volunteer on the Inauguration Committee for President David M. Dooley and then as a media consultant. In 2011, she was hired full time as supervisor of new media, working on multimedia projects across all platforms, and continues to produce and oversee the production of videos promoting the University. In addition, Betty-Jo developed a show for Rhode Island PBS highlighting exciting URI innovation and research, campus development, and community outreach.

Before coming to URI, Betty-Jo’s career focused on broadcasting, working at local radio and television stations, and as the Rhode Island correspondent for USA Today. She rose through the ranks at ABC-6, on air and behind the scenes. She then started a 23-year career at NBC-10, which included working as a producer for NBC-owned and operated stations. She was named the first woman news director in the station’s 72-year history.

Betty-Jo served as vice president of news, leading the team to its first Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence. She was inducted into the Silver Circle of the National Academy of Television Arts and Science, Boston/New England Chapter, earned two New England Emmy Awards, and more than a dozen nominations for her work. She is an adjunct lecturer at Emerson College and former trustee of Dean College, her alma mater. She is a graduate of Leadership Rhode Island and holds a Six Sigma Green Belt certificate.