(Rochester, NY) September 29, 2025 – WXXI has won an “Excellence in Broadcasting” award and a “Serving New York” award from the New York State Broadcasters Association (NYBSA). NYSBA awards recognize outstanding achievement among radio and TV stations in New York State.
The “Excellence in Broadcasting” award in the “Outstanding Feature” category went to WXXI News’ senior producer and editor Veronica Volk for her story “A Rochester mother and daughter took a road trip for the last eclipse. They returned forever changed.”
“In the Key of Z: Classical,” a digital-first series celebrating emerging classical talent in the Rochester region with students from The Hochstein School and Eastman Community Music School was honored with the “Serving New York” award. Hosted by WXXI Classical mid-day host Steve Johnson, the five-part series features captivating live performances and insightful interviews that introduce audiences to the next generation of classical performers. The production team includes Katie Epner, producer, videographer, and editor, Audio Engineer Andrew Croucher and motion graphics by Jeff Coles Smith. Support for “In the Key of Z: Classical” was provided by The Jane K. and Robert C. Stevens Fund for New Programming and Underberg & Kessler, LLP.
The NYSBA Awards ceremony was held in Rochester, NY on Tuesday, September 23 at The Strathallan.
Pictured (L-R): Ruth Phinney, WXXI Classical Program Director; Joanna Bassett from The Hochstein School; Steve Johnson, WXXI Classical mid-day host and host of “In the Key of Z”; Katie Epner, producer of “In the Key of Z”; and Petar Kodzas from the Eastman Community Music School accepting the “Serving New York” award for “In the Key of Z.”
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