Dear editor:
I write in response to the guest column published in the Cowboy State Daily on July 18, 2025, by Joanna Kail.
The column raises significant concerns about the direction of Wyoming PBS and, by extension, Central Wyoming College as its sponsoring institution.
I believe the statements made by CEO Kail regarding bias and audience decline are both misleading and potentially damaging to the long-standing credibility and public trust earned by PBS.
This could, potentially, lead to CWC losing its broadcasting license if the CEO is seen to be using this platform for personal or political gain.
It's important to clarify that while traditional broadcast viewership has declined industry-wide with the rise of streaming platforms, PBS has experienced growth in digital and online engagement.
This distinction in viewing habits and demographics is critical and should not be misrepresented.
Ms. Kail asserts that PBS national leadership has lost public trust due to ideological bias and disconnection from local affiliates like Wyoming PBS—claims she links to a reduction in funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
However, these assertions are speculative and unsupported by objective data. In fact, public enthusiasm for Wyoming PBS remains strong, as demonstrated by the recent success of the 2025 WyoGives campaign, which raised over $90,000 in just 24 hours—nearly double the amount raised the previous year.
If her claims were accurate, we would expect to see this reflected in membership trends or viewership metrics, yet no such evidence has been provided.
Moreover, the timing of Ms. Kail’s editorial—immediately following the WyoGives campaign—raises questions.
It appears the piece was strategically published to avoid donor backlash while leveraging public support for PBS programming such as Masterpiece Mystery, Antiques Roadshow, Nature, NOVA, and Cook’s Country.
This sequence of events creates the appearance of a calculated maneuver rather than a transparent discussion of strategic changes.
Given Ms. Kail’s background in conservative political circles, it's fair to question whether her leadership approach may introduce partisan influence into what should remain an independent, publicly funded media institution.
Wyoming PBS plays an indispensable role in our state.
Beyond its rich local programming, the network supports public safety through emergency notification systems and serves educators and lifelong learners across Wyoming.
Since its inception in 1983, Wyoming PBS has provided fact-based, mission-driven journalism and storytelling tailored to the needs and values of our residents.
As a long-time viewer, educator, and Wyoming resident, I am disheartened that the CEO of this vital organization published such a divisive and unsupported editorial.
If Ms. Kail believes the network is failing in its mission, it raises the fundamental question of why she continues to lead it.
To restore public confidence and transparency, I respectfully urge CWC and Wyoming PBS leadership to release relevant performance data, including annual viewership statistics, membership counts, and fundraising totals for each year of Ms. Kail’s tenure.
Doing so would allow for a clearer assessment of the network’s health and ensure public accountability.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Sarah Reilley
PBS Viewer, Educator, Lifelong Wyoming Resident
