WHYY

WHYY is a nonprofit public media organization that owns and operates television and radio stations, delivering a mix of news, educational, and cultural programming to its audience. The organization’s television service is broadcast as WHYY-TV on channel 12, while its radio service is transmitted as WHYY-FM at 90.9 megahertz. As an affiliate of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and National Public Radio (NPR), WHYY combines nationally syndicated programs with locally produced content that reflects the interests and concerns of its community. Beyond over‑the‑air broadcasts, WHYY provides continuous news coverage through its digital platform WHYY News, which publishes articles, multimedia reports, and podcasts accessible via its website and mobile applications. WHYY also engages in community outreach by offering educational workshops, public forums, and partnerships with schools and cultural institutions. The organization’s stated mission is to inform, educate, and inspire the public through high‑quality journalism, storytelling, and lifelong learning opportunities.

WHYY’s distinguishing characteristic lies in its ability to serve as both a trusted local news source and a gateway to national public media, enabling it to present stories that connect regional issues with broader national contexts. Its newsroom employs reporters, editors, and producers who generate investigative pieces, feature stories, and daily updates that are disseminated through its online channels and shared across social media platforms. In addition to journalism, WHYY develops educational resources such as lesson plans, video series, and interactive tools designed for teachers, students, and lifelong learners. In June 2023, WHYY disclosed a cybersecurity incident in which an unauthorized actor gained access to its computer systems and viewed or copied files containing individuals’ names and Social Security numbers. Upon discovering the breach, the organization promptly offered complimentary credit monitoring and identity restoration services to all potentially affected individuals and reported the incident to federal law enforcement authorities. This event highlights the ongoing challenges WHYY faces in safeguarding sensitive data while maintaining its commitment to delivering reliable news and educational content to the public.