Engagement marketing specialist
WFYI Public Media, Indianapolis
Age: 30
In three words: “Passionate, inclusive, insatiable”
What colleagues say: J.R represents the future of public media. His passion for our mission and commitment to helping us reach younger, more diverse audiences sits at the heart of his work. He is a thought leader whose welcoming style, natural curiosity and thirst for growth sets him apart.
J.R had been an active leader and presenter in Greater Public’s Our Hour, a town hall for public media staff of color, when he volunteered to lead an employee resource group as a safe and nurturing space for WFYI’s staff. J.R’s efforts are helping us not only value, retain and recruit a talented diverse staff but ultimately expand beyond our traditional fan and audience base.
What J.R says
Decision to work in public media: I began working in public media three months before I graduated from college. I wanted to be a part of a mission that serves my community while looking and sounding like I do. Representation matters.
Key accomplishments: I recently wrote a blog post for Greater Public about creating an employee resource group at a station. The goal was to enhance awareness of ERGs and how they create safe space for employees and build a sense of community and belonging. I also am proud to have received a 2023 Public Media for All Development Award.
Inspired by: My community and music. Sharing resources or content with them is exciting. It is a wonderful experience to see their engagement journey.
Advice for young public media professionals: This work has a mission like no other. Take care of yourself and plan your life experiences or career achievements. We all have to take care of ourselves so we can show up for one another.
Advice for public media leaders: Find more ways to include, rather than to exclude. The change you are scared of is happening and will leave you behind if you don’t get on board. You get more results from trying and failing than not even doing anything at all.
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