WSRE Press Room

WSRE Envisionit! Celebration Spotlights Donors

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.

Phyllis & Mike Johnson with PBS President & CEO Paula Kerger

Harry & Pamela Schwartz with Gordon Sprague, WSRE TV Foundation Chair, PBS President & CEO Paula Kerger and WSRE General Manager Sandy Ray

Drs. Nell & Jim Potter with PBS President & CEO Paula Kerger

Elba Robertson was honored as the namesake for a new WSRE award
“The Elba Robertson Lifetime Advocacy Award”