The WNET Group

Along with New York State Education Department, we're leading the Tapestry of New York, a digital quilt project that features artwork and media created by elementary, middle, and high school students across the state. Students can submit original art and media inspired by the Constitution’s first three words: “We the People.” WXXI Public Broadcasting Council WPBS-TV WMHT WCNY BuffaloToronto PublicMedia WSKG Public Media @mountainlakepbs https://tapestryofny.org/

THIRTEEN did all it could to be of service to New York City after 9/11 and to help people heal. As New Yorkers – and people across the country – searched for meaning, reassurance, and hope, THIRTEEN stepped up for New York City in the days and weeks that followed 9/11. Our broadcasts provided thoughtful programming and community conversation for children and adults alike; we offered our offices to Red Cross volunteers who were helping families search for missing loved ones; and THIRTEEN employees assisted with the Missing Persons’ Hotline. Read more about our response on our blog at thirteen.org. https://lnkd.in/e7cJMncV

Through a mix of new programs, archival material and inspiring personal stories, The WNET Group will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the founding of New York City this fall. THIRTEEN and WLIW; arts and culture hub ALL ARTS; and Long Island’s only NPR station WLIW-FM will include content focusing on the city’s social, political, cultural, and intellectual history and its transformation from a remote trading post into a global megacity. Join us from September through October https://lnkd.in/gd3X9jTs

We’re excited to announce that Edward F. O’Keefe has been named the next President and CEO of The WNET Group. An award-winning journalist and nonprofit leader, Ed brings decades of experience in storytelling, editorial leadership, and innovation. He will join our organization on September 21, succeeding Neal Shapiro, who will retire at the end of the year after nearly two decades leading The WNET Group. Read the full press release to learn more about Ed’s appointment and what’s ahead for The WNET Group. https://bit.ly/4b7TkKE

The The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) announced the winners of the 47th Annual News & Documentary Emmy® Awards, with The WNET Group picking up two awards! Simon Schama: The Holocaust, 80 Years On won in the category “Outstanding Historical Documentary” and Great Performances — Tiler Peck: Suspending Time won in the category “Outstanding Arts and Culture Documentary.” The 47th Annual News & Documentary Emmy® Awards are presented in recognition of excellence in American news and documentary programming, selected from more than 2,100 submissions and judged by a panel of 1600 peer professionals from across the news and documentary industry.

Last week, American Masters premiered the film "American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez" at the Sundance Film Festival where the film won the “Audience Award: U.S. Documentary” and the “Festival Favorite Award.” Directed by David Alvarado, the film chronicles how Valdez illuminated the Mexican-American experience on stage and screen, transforming the American cultural landscape. "American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez" will make its broadcast premiere as a co-presentation with American Masters and VOCES in Fall 2026. https://lnkd.in/gCBBhgB2

Wordsville, co-produced by The WNET Group Kids’ Media & Education team and Sinking Ship Entertainment, has been selected as a finalist for The Prix Jeunesse International 2026, the oldest children’s and youth TV festival worldwide, in the category 7-10 Years Fiction. This live-action literacy mystery series follows Word Detectives Gabby and Sly as they track down a key word missing from their town. While solving mysteries along with the detective duo, viewers build their vocabulary knowledge. Every two years, the festival honors the most outstanding and innovative children’s screen media. The awards reflect the votes of more than 400 children’s media experts from all over the world. The festival takes place May 29 to June 3, 2026 in Munich, Germany. https://lnkd.in/gN3bUyv8

After nearly two decades as President & CEO of The WNET Group, Neal Shapiro has decided to retire at the end of 2026. He will remain in his role through the leadership transition and will support WNET as President Emeritus, focusing on fundraising and strategic priorities.   In a statement, he says, “Leading this organization has been the privilege of my professional career, and I am deeply grateful for the people, experiences, and opportunities that have shaped my time with this organization.” https://lnkd.in/gQNDQbdV