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South Florida PBS (WPBT, WXEL, & Health Channel) It is with profound sadness that South Florida PBS announces the passing of its founding CEO, George Dooley, who died on April 25th at the age of 91.
George Dooley was a pioneering visionary in public media, establishing South Florida PBS’s WPBT2 mission of providing high-quality educational and cultural programming to the South Florida community. Under his steadfast leadership over four decades, the station grew from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected public media institutions in the region.
“George Dooley’s legacy is immeasurable,” said Dolores Fernandez Alonso, CEO and President of South Florida PBS. “He had an unwavering belief in the power of public media to enlighten, educate and inspire. His passion for exceptional programming touched countless lives.”
Born in July 1932 in New York, George Dooley demonstrated an early commitment to public service and the arts. After he earned his English degree from the University of Miami, he brought his talents and determination to creating a public media station that would reflect the highest standards of integrity, creativity, and educational value.
Under the visionary leadership of former founding CEO George Dooley, South Florida PBS’ WPBT achieved several pioneering milestones. It became the first PBS station in Florida to transmit digitally, solidifying its commitment to emerging technologies. Dooley launched the 15-minute “Nightly Business Report” program, which later evolved into the first national half-hour televised business program, providing in-depth financial analysis. Additionally, WPBT made history by premiering “Que Pasa, USA?,” the first bilingual television sitcom, celebrating cultural diversity and inclusivity within the communities it serves. Dooley’s innovative spirit and dedication to excellence left an indelible mark, paving the way for South Florida PBS to continue pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional programming. In later years, George Dooley remained devoted to South Florida PBS’s mission and supportive of its continued growth and evolution.
About South Florida PBS
South Florida PBS is Florida’s largest public media company, including Public Broadcasting stations WXEL-TV, serving the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast and WPBT2, serving Miami-Dade and Broward counties, and the Health Channel, the only 24/7 channel dedicated to health in the nation. South Florida PBS connects organizations and institutions across our region and preserves South Florida’s history. Leading the way in this global society, South Florida PBS is committed to creating and presenting award-winning programs focused on kids, education, arts and culture, health, environment, science, and civic engagement.
