Intentional Transformation

On November 3, we’ll hear from Ann Alquist, Director of Radio at Prairie Public on the topic of transformation, specifically in Watford City, North Dakota. Watford City transformed almost overnight into a national news story with the oil boom. The community is in the process of transforming itself - this time with intentionality and care, rather than reacting to outside forces. Ann will share how Prairie Public is spending time engaging with the community in Watford City to document the micro moments that they hope will build a new community that continues long after the oil dries up.
Ann Alquist is a recognized leader in public media and expert in community engagement. Her deep commitment to community and local media started as the news director of a citizen journalism newsroom in Minneapolis, training and coaching community members to produce local news. She has worked with large, urban public radio stations as well rural stations in the remotest parts of the United States at the National Center for Media Engagement. Prior to joining Prairie Public, Ann raised $1 million for KCAW in Sitka, Alaska to build renewable energy sourced radio translators across “the panhandle” in southeastern Alaska. While Alaska is her forever home, Theodore Roosevelt National Park will always be her favorite.