Maureen Jenson: A Lasting Legacy in Custom Integration and Consumer Technology Journalism
May 5, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Maureen Jenson on March 26 in Hermosa Beach, California.
For decades, Maureen was a vibrant force in the consumer technology and custom integration industries, a trailblazer whose humor, unwavering integrity, and passion for storytelling helped shape and elevate an entire community.
Of British descent, Maureen made her professional home in California’s South Bay. Her adventurous spirit carried her across the globe, from industry trade shows to personal trips back to visit family in the UK, and sun-soaked vacations in the Greek isles.
Many knew Maureen best through her words. As Editor-in-Chief of Audio Video Interiors — one of the original consumer-facing publications for the custom installation market — Maureen helped champion an emerging industry. Under her leadership, AVI was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from CEDIA in 1993 for its role in the founding and flourishing of the custom installation channel.
But Maureen wasn’t just reporting on the industry, she was living it. She served as a panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts in Washington, D.C., and lent her expertise as an awards judge for the Seventh Annual Discover Awards for Technological Innovation. She knew the technology, understood the integrators’ challenges, and translated both into compelling stories for the wider world.
Her editorial journey continued with leadership roles at Home Theater Magazine, Stereophile Guide to Home Theater, and later NAPCO Media, where she steered CustomRetailer, Technology Integrator, E-Gear, and CEDIA’s Electronic Lifestyles magazine, which chronicled and celebrated the CEDIA Awards’ most inspiring projects, many of which she helped bring to wider attention back in her AVI days. Most recently, she served as Editor-in-Chief of HTSA Insight magazine under the Technology Insider Group banner, always finding fresh ways to spotlight the evolving smart home industry she loved.
Maureen’s influence was recognized with her induction as a CEDIA Fellow in 2011, as well as a Lifetime Achievement recognition from IPRO the same year. In 2012, she was named a Women in Consumer Technology Legacy Award honoree, a fitting tribute to her tireless mentorship and example to so many in a still male-dominated field.
Outside of her professional life, Maureen was a devoted advocate for animal welfare and a lifelong equestrian enthusiast. She dedicated time to supporting local animal shelter causes and found joy in horseback riding, a favorite pastime that connected her to nature and adventure.
Maureen’s loss leaves an indelible mark on the countless friends, colleagues, and an entire industry who knew and admired her. Maureen is survived by her sister, Carol Gould and her partner, Nicholas Hynes.
A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Maureen’s honor to The American Cancer Society.
Maureen Jenson’s legacy isn’t simply written in the pages she edited or the awards she received. It lives on in the industry she helped define — and in the hearts of all those lucky enough to call her a mentor, colleague, and friend. Please pay tribute to Maureen and share your memories below.
40 Comments
I met Maureen more than 25 years ago, right at the start of my career in the CI industry. From day one, she was someone you could turn to — always ready with advice, encouragement, or just a friendly ear. She was one of the most respected and recognizable women in this space, a true trailblazer who mentored so many of us. Maureen’s warmth, wisdom, and authenticity made a lasting impression that I’ll always carry with me.
Maureen Jenson was a journalistic icon in our industry. I first met her in the early ‘90s when she was masterfully covering the evolution of PARA, one of the first true professional development organizations in our channel. She uniquely understood the value of peer-sharing groups and helped spotlight their importance long before they became commonplace. But more than her foresight, it was Maureen’s unwavering integrity and commitment to honest, thoughtful reporting that truly set her apart—never swayed by favor, always guided by what was genuinely newsworthy. I will deeply miss her kind and gentle spirit. Her memory will continue to inspire all of us who had the privilege of knowing her.
I’m devastated to hear this news. What a ray of sunshine we have lost!
At the 2000 CEDIA Expo, I had the good fortune to meet Maureen. I was new to the consumer electronics industry, and she could see I had that deer-in-the-headlights look. She immediately invited me to accompany her to the day’s press events and made several introductions. She knew more than I did that we were competitors; instead, she saw a fellow woman. Maureen was the queen of the consumer electronics press corps. Her integrity as a person and journalist was respected by all. Hardly missing one, we served as judges for more than 20 years for the annual Lutron Excellence Awards. I will profoundly miss my friend, her remarkable wit, infectious laughter, and British accent, which delightfully intensified with each glass of champagne. Ultimately, words cannot fully express the depth of this sadness.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had Maureen in my life for the past 27 years. She was more than a mentor—she was a friend, a guiding light, and an inspiration to everyone she met, both human and animal alike. Maureen paved the way for so many women in our industry, breaking barriers with grace and strength. Her English charm, radiant smile, and unmistakable laugh left an impression that will never fade. Some of my most treasured career memories include Maureen, and I can only hope that those she inspired will continue her legacy by lifting up the next generation.
I have so many memories of working with Maureen, spanning 35 years of personal and professional accomplishments. Her unwavering commitment to her craft was as memorable as the laughter and joy we shared throughout our friendship. Maureen had an extraordinary gift, she could make any project feel both important and incredibly fun. I still have VHS tapes of her debut as a TV star on HGTV, a perfect reminder of her charisma, passion, and the infectious energy she brought to everything she touched.
I immediately thought of you when I heard the news. I have such fond memories of working with the two of you back in the Niles & SIM2 days, as well as several shared laughs over cocktails. Words cannot suffice for a loss such as this. I hope to see you soon so we can raise a glass to sweet Maureen.
Maureen was one in a million. She was a great editor who respected everyone involved in publishing a magazine. Charismatic, intelligent a good friend and mentor to many, she will be missed.
Maureen was one of my first “bosses” at Home Theater magazine. She was tough, got shit done, and knew how to work a room. But really, she was incredibly fun. I loved it when she would just randomly break into a British accent. I have so many memories of her fabulousness. Cheers to her with a glass of bubbly, of course.
Maureen was just an amazing person. She was a trusted advisor, a trailblazer for the many women who followed in her footsteps in this industry and I remember watching her with amazement as she was able to manage multiple projects with heavy workloads and still make time for her many, many friends, coworkers and customers with her winning smile and charm. May her family be at peace and her memory be eternal. Rest in peace, my dear mentor.
I am sad to hear of Maureen’s passing. She was always friendly to talk with during shows, calls and emails, and she was very knowledgeable about the industry. My condolences to her family and friends.
I was devastated to hear this news last month. Maureen was such a genuine person, and she provided me with such wonderful advice over the years. I will cherish the times we had together at so many events and press junkets around the world. Our mutual connection to the South Bay was the source of many stories and laughs over the years. I will miss her greatly.
Maureen was my “comfort zone” in the early days. In a sea of mostly men back 20+ years ago, knowing Maureen was also tackling the trade show floor made me feel less alone and sparked a sense of confidence. She was my shining light, during conferences, cocktail receptions, press conferences, and I have many fond memories of the shenanigans that unfolded during our time as Lutron excellence awards judges. She will be so missed
I adored Maureen, and don’t know anyone who didn’t. I was always so happy and excited to run into her at industry events. She was part of a small circle of journalist friends that would get together for dinners at CES and elsewhere, share a few drinks and life stories, and have a lot of laughs. (Hers was infectious.) It’s incredibly sad to think that she’s gone, and everyone who knew her will feel her absence in their lives.
Maureen was a true gem. I must have known her for 25 years or more. She was always kind, capable and positive competitor, industry friend and all-around great person. Her perspective was unique and badly needed in the industry both years ago as well as today. This is beyond sad news today.
I feel so lucky to have known and been friends with Maureen for over thirty-five years. That smile of hers, that laugh — they’ll stay with so many of us forever. From the very beginning, I loved, admired, and adored her with all my heart. Her kindness and warmth left a lasting impression — not just on me, but on everyone blessed enough to know her.
We shared a love for horses and riding — something that always brought us joy. I’d send her pictures of our two horses from time to time, and we’d talk about rides and the freedom of being in the saddle.
She missed riding this past year. So now, ride the skies of Heaven, my friend. You will be missed more than words can ever express.
Maureen was a fixture at all of the major A/V industry events for as long as I can remember. She always had a smile and a friendly greeting wherever we were. She will be missed.
This is a tremendous loss. Maureen was not only an icon in our industry but also a truly beautiful soul. I had the privilege of meeting her during her time as Editor of Home Theater Magazine. She was always deeply attentive, eager to learn, and incredibly passionate about her work. Her warmth and dedication left a lasting impression on everyone who had the honor of working with her.
She will be dearly missed.
Maureen was simply the best, not only at her craft, but as a person
Roughly 30 years ago zi invited her to Jamo in Denmark, she loved the trip and managed to visit Sweden, we had a great time. Later as director of Catalyst AV the first person I thought about to handle our marketing and our PR was Maureen. We always managed to squeeze in a dinner during Cedia
I will forever be grateful for our 35 years friendship, she was the best at what she did
Helge Fischer
Jamo and Catalyst AV
Our AI Family mourns the passing of an incredible human being and industry icon. Audio Video Interiors was a major influence in my early business life, and I dreamt of having a project published, no less a cover. Our paths crossed in 1995, and we became instant friends. That was Maureen’s way. As the years faded into decades, it was always a highlight to see her every year at industry events.
We shared many milestones together-mostly joyous, and several profoundly sad. Remembering her smile, contagious laugh, love of wine and a lifetime of trailblazing contributions to our industry. Rest in peace my friend.
I am truly heartbroken; Maureen was a bright light at every industry event and such a kind person. My most sincere condolences to her loved ones.
Maureen was such a lovely person, so much fun and always fascinating to chat with. I went on countless junkets with her, and every time she walked into a room the mood elevated. And everyone I know felt the same way about her. The whole industry will miss her.
I am lucky to say that Maureen Jenson has been a constant presence throughout my career for over 25 years. Partnering with her was always an absolute joy. She was such a respected force in our industry.
From my days at Monster to the launch of Austere, Maureen was always there, supporting us in the media, helping tell our stories, and cheering us on. Maureen had an incredible ability to elevate the voices and work of those around her. She always found a way to spotlight our latest products, celebrate our milestones, and bring attention to the heart of what we were building.
Everyone adored Maureen—not just because of what she did but because of who she was. She believed in people and took joy in their success. I’m incredibly grateful to have worked alongside her and even more thankful to have spent quality time with her over the years. She will be missed!
Maureen’s dedication to impactful journalism in the AV and smart home industry not only illuminated the field for consumers but also enriched the lives of installation specialists and the manufacturers whose products she chronicled. Her passion for storytelling and unwavering integrity helped shape the industry, making complex technologies accessible and inspiring countless professionals. Maureen’s legacy lives on in the community she helped build and the lives she touched, including mine. May God rest her soul.
Oh Mo! We have lost some industry greats, but your passing will leave a void that will not go unnoticed by those who were helped through your passion and gift of caring and giving.
I fondly remember when you, Meg Roberts and I attended the debut of Frox at one of LA’s top nightclubs. Decades later you remembered the limo I borrowed for the event, stocked with chocolate dipped strawberries, champagne and roses. Just one of many great times…being chased by security in a rented golf cart, after-hours on a very dark golf course, during the first CEDIA Expo at Amelia Island. The golf cart was over capacity with you, Meg, Janice & Ivan Zuckerman and me and security eventually cornered us, and you persuaded security to let us pass.
I will remember you often and smile.
Maureen was my first EIC in the industry when Geoff Morrison brought me in to do various tasks at Home Theater. It was always a fun time when she and Heather Dickson came out to the test/photography studio for cover shoots, face offs, or manufacturer visits. But beyond that she was incredibly supportive, offering words of wisdom and guidance to me, a young and fresh reviewer, and always invited me on for new projects to keep me busy and involved with the magazine. Of the handful of people that were instrumental to my career, she is one of the most prominent.
Her support extended outside of publishing, as she even brought her friends out to see my band perform on a few occasions. We all are better for having had the opportunity to know her.
This industry is special largely because of the people. Maureen was the epitome of the best of them. Her grace, compassion and professionalism are guiding lights for the rest of us. As Meg Caldwell said in another post, I am sure she and Anderson are sharing a lovely bottle of wine. RIP sweet lady!
I am very saddened to hear this news. I knew her for nearly 30 years. In fact, when I started my Calibration and Consulting business in early 2001 Maureen gave me a monthly column in Home Theater magazine, which she was Editor in Chief of at the time. I enjoyed working with her there for several years. She was an upbeat spirit, and a master at her craft. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.
Like many of us here, I have known Maureen for decades and every meet-up, phone call, event and social gathering with Maureen was a pleasure. She took interest in our daughter’s equestrian training, enjoyed talking about music, South Bay Hermosa Beach living, wine, travel, (she made very good recommendations for us visiting Greece in 2019), animals, and of course, everything about our industry. I will miss her deeply. The photo is from an evening out at Sainte Rock , Hermosa Beach in 2017. Apologies that I don’t recall Maureen’s friend name on the right of the photo with my wife, Lisa.
Fly on safely, MJ.
🙏❤️🐾
I am very sad to hear of Maureen’s passing. What a beautiful person. She was knowledgeable and dedicated. I enjoyed reading her articles, talking with her at trade shows, and working with her occasionally. My condolences to her friends and family.
Such sad news, and so many wonderful tributes. My deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.
I am so devastated, Maureen was one of the first people in the industry I met and was so kind to me and ironically it was Andy Willcox who introduced us. I still remember dinner at the Palm in Dallas and all of us walking around the grassy knoll after dinner. Mo was so vibrant and and lit up any room as soon as she walked in. It didn’t matter if it was a small gathering or a trade show but she was a presence and force to be reckoned with. I still have every copy of Audio Video Interiors. Rest in peace, Maureen.
I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Maureen’s passing. She was a remarkable journalist who respected everyone. A true professional and an uplifting, fun person to spend time with. I felt she was always someone you can count on for advice. She will be missed.
I was saddened and devastated to see this painful news.
I absolutely adored Maureen. I last saw her when we were both in New York and we got together for lunch. She was a joy and I am just heartbroken.
We were both on the ground floor of the emerging home theater/custom installation market back in the early 90’s when she was with Audio Video Interiors along with Carol Campbell and I was helping Sam establish then tiny Runco as an industry force. How we blossomed and of course Maureen was a central figure in that success. One of my early and lasting influences was Maureen. She never left you feeling pressured to buy something because the only thing she was selling was our industry. So you could just enjoy her company and her valued help. We became fast friends and I always delighted in our time together immensely. As you can see from many other comments on here, she left the same impression and impact on everybody.
While women in our “man’s world” of consumer electronics have a challenge to stand out and make a difference, it was a natural for Maureen. She was a real pro and executed with excellence, a talent I deeply admired. Later, when I was with Marantz, Maureen continued to offer the same invaluable help.
In life, relationships are everything. Beyond family, we all make bonds of friendship throughout our lives and relationships we develop through our work are among the embryos for some of the most lasting and significant of those bonds. What a truly remarkable woman, human being and cherished friend Maureen was.
As I look through the list of those who have left comments, many are longtime (as in a reeeal long time) and valued friends whom I mostly haven’t seen for some time. I would like to offer kudos for their warm remembrances – we were all touched by Maureen in the same positive way. So thanks to my old but not forgotten friends — Carol, Jay, Kevin, Angela, Helge, Brent, Barbara — we share this loss but also the joy that was our privilege in having crossed paths with Maureen. Love to you dear Maureen — you will be missed more than you can imagine.
Very sad to learn of the passing of one of our brightest colleagues. Maureen was a lovely person and a pleasure to be around. During the heyday of Home Theater and Sound & Vision we crossed paths many times at press events and junkets and always made time to catch up and chat. I, like others here, remember her breaking into a full-on British accent after we had a few too many drinks. She will be missed by all who knew her. Rest in peace, Maureen.
Maureen was the kind of friend who was always there when you needed her. We had many laughs together over the years– press trips in wine country for Sim2, Mexico with her sister Carol for Runco, and UK trips and dinners with Bowers & Wilkins. Once we crashed an Intel party in San Francisco, dancing the night away. We walked the hallowed halls of Abbey Road Studios together, drank beer in London pubs, and she taught me how to make a killer tuna melt sandwich at her home by the beach. Maureen was such a joy to be around, and I will miss her presence in my life forever.
Only met Maureen once I’m sorry to say, and at a trade show, of course. But her laugh was contagious and her spirit uplifting, and she could bend an elbow with the best of them. Deepest condolences to all who knew and loved her.
I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Maureen, a journalist I admired and a familiar face at countless industry events. We met through Women in CE when she moderated a panel I participated in on mentoring women in the industry — a role she filled with insight, humor, and grace. She had an unmistakable presence: sunglasses always perched on top of her head, a bright, engaging smile, and a spirit that made post-panel drinks feel like a gathering of old friends. Her warmth, sharp mind, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all of us lucky enough to have known her.
So beautiful, inside and out. I loved Maureen dearly and feel incredibly fortunate to have had her in my life. She was always such a joyous, generous spirit. She had a beautiful way of teaching, with gentle guidance and a side of confidence. She left an indelible mark on this industry and likely anyone lucky enough to know her. I will cherish the special moments we shared and often fall back on her advice. Gone way too soon, but forever in our hearts.
around 1990 for the first time i read the AVI editor’s column. it was Maureen’s talking about how a bunch of dealers were thinking about creating a trade association. that is how i discovered and help found CEDIA. For the next several years we would talk about daily. She was instrumental in me learning about our industry. From that a great friendship blossomed. Sadly, we lost that constant contact the last several years, but she always remained a special friend for me and my wife. This is heartbreaking news.