When I arrived a year ago, I said our work would be about Bringing Us Together as neighbors, as makers, and as a community that believes in the power of public media. I meant it then, and I feel it even more today.
This year has been one of learning and listening. I moved my life here and you welcomed me fully in schools and theaters, churches and coffee shops, boardrooms and living rooms, at The Little and on the air. You shared what WXXI means to you and what you hope for next, and I’ve carried every one of those conversations with me.
We also faced a challenge none of us expected: the sudden loss of federal funding. Together, we rolled up our sleeves and launched the Close the Gap campaign. And by October, because of thousands of gifts large and small, we did it. I’ll never forget the donor who made a transformational gift to honor both me and my predecessor — and then told me she liked my sneakers. I’ve kept that story close because it captures the spirit of this community: generous, joyful, and rooted in real relationships.
To our members, donors, foundation partners, sponsors, board, staff, and volunteers — thank you. You believed in WXXI when it mattered most. You reminded us that public media belongs to the public. The fight to save public media is not over but you gave us the time to re-imagine how we serve during these times of change and we are thankful for your sustaining support!
As we head into the holiday break, I hope each of you has a moment to rest, to take pride in what we’ve accomplished together, and to feel the power of community that makes Rochester so special.
I am grateful to be here. I am grateful to serve you. And I am excited for what’s ahead — together.
Sincerely,
Chris Hastings
President & CEO, WXXI Public Media
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