I am thrilled to join WXXI Public Media, The Little Theatre, and CITY Magazine as its new President & CEO, and equally excited to make Rochester my new home.
As a longtime producer and journalist in public media, I’ve had the privilege of capturing and curating stories that illuminate, inspire, and foster understanding. Now, I’m excited to bring that dedication to the Rochester region, eager to elevate the voices and stories that matter most here. Public media has a unique power to bridge divides and strengthen communities, and I am committed to making WXXI a platform where everyone’s story has a place and purpose. Together, we can use storytelling to connect, celebrate, and enrich our community.
In these times, with a new election season just behind us, the importance of trustworthy information and reliable journalism is clearer than ever. Public media has the potential to be a unifying force, offering diverse perspectives, fostering understanding, and creating opportunities for connection through news, arts, children’s programming, and more. No matter where you live, we all value a well-told story, and WXXI will continue to be here to bring you just that.
As I begin my journey here, I’m launching the “Bringing Us Together” campaign for my first 100 days. I want to meet as many of you as possible to learn about the issues, ideas, and stories that matter most to your communities. Whether it’s at an event, in a local meeting space, or even over a meal, I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts on how WXXI can better serve our region. Let me know what time to be there and I’ll do my best to show up! Send me a note at WXXICEO@wxxi.org or connect with me on Instagram @WXXIrochester.
We’re here to provide a balanced perspective and support our local community to cut through the noise, and to be a part of your daily lives. I look forward to meeting many of you on the road, in your neighborhoods, or here at WXXI or The Little Theatre. Let’s come together and build a stronger community, one story at a time.
Thank you for welcoming me. Here’s to a new chapter for WXXI, and to a shared commitment to this region.
All the best,
Chris Hastings
President & CEO
WXXI Public Media