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WBUR 2023 Annual Report
A LETTER FROM THE CEO
Our biggest fans tell us that WBUR is “essential” in their lives. They say that WBUR “makes the world a better and more informed place.” That we’re “a lifeline.” “The news source they trust most.” And there’s good reason for that. Over many decades, we’ve fostered meaningful relationships with millions of listeners.
The crisis in local journalism has been chronicled many times over. The pandemic and current economic conditions hastened the decline — with many news outlets shuttered or diminished. WBUR is not immune to these challenges. The headwinds are powerful. At the same time, local news has relevance and importance that it’s never had before. Whether we’re covering climate change, the opioid epidemic, massive housing shortages or threats to democratic institutions. These are issues of seismic national and global importance. They’re also profoundly local and have a direct impact on our lives — right where we live.
In the links below, I’m proud to share some 2023 highlights — in pictures and in words. Field Guide to Boston was one of the year’s most ambitious projects, designed to help our neighbors feel more connected to their communities and one another. WBUR reporters fanned out across the city to create guides to all the major Boston neighborhoods. From Back Bay to Beacon Hill. Roslindale to Roxbury. It’s rich in detail — with everything from nightlife to neighborhood haunts and hidden gems. I grew up here and it’s a reminder (at least for me) of how much Boston there is still to discover.
This is just one of the ways we hope to be a touchstone, a daily habit for everyone in the region who cares about this place we call home. We believe that public media is one of the last great hopes for journalism — a cornerstone of our democracy — and we’re at a critical inflection point. Major philanthropic support is essential to our future and to the well-being of our city and our region. WBUR is a public trust, with a nearly 75 year track record — worthy of investment so that we can be here to serve the public, report the truth and enrich lives for another 75 years.
You are central to our success, now and going forward. Thank you for your enduring support.
With appreciation,
Margaret Low
Chief Executive Officer