May 17, 2006
Social workers honor WSIU producer
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- A producer at WSIU Public Television at Southern Illinois University Carbondale received a top public service award from a social service agency.
The Southern Illinois chapter of the National Association of Social Workers named David Kidd Public Citizen of the Year. The group cited Kidd for his exemplary contributions to communities and the social work profession in the area, especially his work on behalf of seniors.
An award-winning member of the WSIU staff, Kidd developed long-term relationships with regional social service agencies, including the Quad Counties Coalition, which consists of various social service agencies in four Southern Illinois counties. The social workers association cited collaborative efforts including WSIU InFocus segments and a live call-in program on Medicare Part D, among other works produced by Kidd. It also mentioned programs about Alzheimer's disease, child protection and various programs on social and medical services in the region.
"We do a our fair share of lighthearted — yet informative — features, but I also want to make sure we focus on doing pieces that matter, that touch people life's with information or provide a social voice," Kidd said. "I'm working with partners in the community to get access to people who can tell these important stories.
"(Receiving the award) means I'm starting to actually touch people's lives in a tangible way. I think this award will further motivate me to go out and do an even better job," he said.
Kidd, who has worked at WSIU since 1990, currently is working on InFocus programs on HIV/AIDS, parish nursing and cultural changes in nursing homes.
Serving others is among the goals of Southern at 150: Building Excellence Through Commitment, the blueprint the University is following as it approaches its 150th anniversary in 2019.
David Kidd
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