On the evening of Wednesday, March 16, WSRE celebrated a milestone as it wrapped up its yearlong Envisionit! Giving Campaign with a gala to honor several loyal, lifetime donors. Paula Kerger, President and CEO of PBS, was in Pensacola to recognize donors and dedicate special areas in the WSRE Kugelman Center for Telecommunications and the Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio. WSRE’s Envisionit! Campaign raised over $800,000 in much needed funds in support of the continued and future production of local programming, the station’s endowment fund and the enhancement of broadcast technology.
Community members and the rooms dedicated in their honor include:
Phyllis & Michael Johnson Studio
Lovoy Family Educational Resources
Drs. Nell & James Potter Reception Room
Colleen Rogers Family Room
Harry & Pamela Schwartz SightLine Studio
Also, Ms. Elba Robertson was honored as the namesake for a new award called “The Elba Robertson Lifetime Advocacy Award,” bestowed upon individuals that demonstrate a true commitment and passion for public broadcasting in their communities. The first recipient of the award, given posthumously, was to longtime supporter Mr. John Alderfer.
Paula Kerger shared her thanks with the audience for investing in their community through WSRE with a strong commitment to education, the arts, public affairs allowing everyone along the Gulf Coast, from every walk of life, the opportunity to discover new worlds through public media.
