Shortly after I began working at WETA, I became aware of a benign presence, an elderly lady who was always quick to smile and always interested in the employees and their activities at the station. Her office at the time was located right at the front door (and near the restrooms) so she was guaranteed to see everyone at least twice a day. It was important to her to know what was happening and to be in the loop.

In time, I realized what most of my co-workers already knew: Elizabeth Campbell is the soul of WETA. As our venerable announcer Paul Anthony says, "She's the mom to this station." WETA is one of the few institutions to still benefit from its founder's presence, and if you appreciate the services WETA offers, you can thank Mrs. Campbell.

As I grew to know Mrs. Campbell, I was impressed that a woman well into her 90s still came to work every day (and had never accepted a paycheck). That she realized long ago TV could teach as well as sell. That she acts on her deep faith, but is open to new ideas. That after a long life of accomplishment, she embraces the present – and the future. I learned about the journey that made a preacher's daughter from Salem, North Carolina into a distinguished Washingtonian. It was a great story about a great role model—so we made a show.

As I spoke with her family, friends, and colleagues during the production, I realized just how many people have been touched by Elizabeth Campbell, whether they know it or not, and how taken they are by her and her work.

I hope we can offer viewers of "Elizabeth Campbell" and the users of this web site much more than Mrs. Campbell's résumé. I hope we can offer a view into who she is, what inspires her, and how she brings grace into a time that often seems to have none.

We hope you may gain insight into a great woman's life. We would like to teach and inspire—just like Mrs. Campbell has.

- Joe Bruncsak
WETA Senior Producer
"Elizabeth Campbell: A Passion to Teach"