On a rainy day in Dothan, one room inside the Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center was brimming with anticipation. Inside the gymnasium turned reception hall, community leaders, family and friends gathered to surprise a local icon with a special honor. Watch the celebration in action below. 👇🎉
Deborah Pearson has dedicated more than 30 years of her life to journalism, community reporting and storytelling in Dothan, Alabama. In 1992, she started her career at WOOF-FM. Throughout the years she has told countless impactful stories, including local crime and investigations. Today, she serves as WOOF’s news director.
Pearson’s work also goes beyond the air waves. She is an extremely active volunteer across several Dothan organizations. Her work has not only informed but also inspired the community.
At the surprise celebration, the room was filled with tears and applause as Pearson made her entrance. She had no idea Comcast enlisted elected leaders and loved ones to honor her as a “Champion of Change.”
Pearson was recognized by the technology company for her unwavering commitment to the Dothan area and her significant contributions to local broadcasting. In addition, September 12 was officially declared ‘Deborah Pearson Day’ in the City of Dothan and Houston County.
The luncheon featured remarks from community leaders such as Evangeline Reynolds-Gunn, CEO at Tri-State Expo. Each speaker shared heartfelt stories about Pearson’s impact on them personally, on their organizations and on the area.
“Being the voice of the Wiregrass is paramount,” said Reynolds-Gunn. “Thank you for the deposits you’ve made in so many lives.”
To highlight and enhance Pearson’s community impact, Comcast donated more than 40 laptops across six local organizations on her behalf: Tri-State Expo, House of Ruth, Wiregrass Angel House, LifeSouth Community Blood Center, Dothan Community Church, and Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center (HHYEC). Additionally, Comcast made a $5,000 donation to HHYEC.
At the event, community members also heard from Quiana Pinckney, Vice President of Communications for the Comcast Central Division.
“In a world that seems increasingly divided, journalism, fact-based media, and the need for purpose-driven stories are appreciated and must be celebrated,” said Pinckney. “The work of a true champion is ongoing and never truly finished, and Comcast is thrilled to honor Deborah Pearson as a Champion of Change for her impactful work in Dothan, Alabama and her deep connection to and appreciation for the community.”
Champions of Change is an initiative led by Comcast that celebrates and uplifts the media for their dedication to diverse storytelling and community representation. This initiative identifies and recognizes those who are courageous in their work, ensuring that all voices are heard and all stories are told.
This Champions of Change event, which honored an individual, was the first of its kind from the Comcast Central Division. It was made possible by the support and participation of impactful community members and friends of Pearson.
“It’s an honor to be called a Champion of Change. To be recognized by my community and have a day named after me…I can’t put it into words,” said Pearson. “To say I’m in this community making a change is so unbelievable. I’m so grateful and I hope that change continues.”
Comcast’s Investment in Houston County
Comcast recently invested $4.5 million in Houston County to expand high-speed Internet access to more homes and businesses. This expansion includes areas in Dothan east of Ross Clark Circle and Route 431, as well as parts of Ashford, Cottonwood, Cowarts, Kinsey, and Webb. The goal is to bridge the digital divide in the community and support veterans, local nonprofits, and small and medium-sized businesses. Learn more about serviceability at your address here.
