Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications Association

“PBS NewsHour” covers a range of issues relevant to the foundation’s grantmaking programs, which includes coverage in areas such as climate change, the environment, education, immigration, criminal justice, and access to health care. It is a credible media source that provides viewers with in-depth, responsible, and unbiased news coverage on timely issues. Such institutions are increasingly rare, particularly as the business model for journalism continues to change. During the term of this grant, “PBS NewsHour” will continue to deepen its domestic and international news coverage, prepare for the U.S. 2024 presidential election, as well as increase its web presence and ability to partner with online media and social platforms.

This grant would provide support for the PBS NewsHour, which continues to be a vital source of objective television news. The NewsHour operates in a very challenging fundraising environment, as corporate funders have significantly reduced their underwriting of the program. Thus, the Foundation’s funding—which has been regular since 2001—has proved particularly important in recent years. TECHNOLOGY AND VIDEOCONFERENCING

This grant to the Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications Association would provide general support for the PBS NewsHour—one of the most influential television news programs in the United States. The NewsHour provides objective reporting that offers balanced, thoughtful analysis about issues relevant to all the Foundation’s grantmaking programs. In May, the NewsHour announced that Jim Lehrer will be stepping down from his longtime role as anchor, although he will remain involved in the editorial direction of the program. This change has been anticipated for quite some time, and we do not believe that it will have a significant effect on the program’s quality or its influence.