PBS Utah won three Emmys at the 47th Rocky Mountain Emmy® Awards on Nov. 16, in Phoenix, AZ. Hosted by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the awards are dedicated to celebrating excellence in television by honoring exceptional work in the Rocky Mountain Southwest Chapter.

“We are thrilled to honor the hard work and dedication of our talented directors, producers, videographers, engineers, editors, hosts, and many more who make our work possible,” said Lisa Olken, PBS Utah director of content

PBS Utah was awarded in three categories:

Interview/Discussion:

Roots, Race & Culture: Race and the Beauty Standard— Lonzo and Danor host a discussion with Tiffany Rasmussen and Harjit Kaur about race and beauty standards. Inspired by Malcolm X’s 1962 speech, the episode questions negative attitudes toward physical features such as hair texture, skin color, and body shape. The panelists share personal experiences and emphasize the importance of inclusivity and embracing natural beauty.

Environment/Science Long Form Content:

This is Utah: The Great Salt Lake— Delve into the tale of the Great Salt Lake which is an integral part of the Salt Lake Valley’s culture and identity. Learn of the lake’s ecosystem through the world of brine shrimp. Discover how the Great Salt Lake Institute’s team of scientists and educators are investigating whether the lake can survive. And experience the poetry of Nan Seymour, whose words advocate for the lake’s protection.

Magazine Program (Single Program):

This is Utah: Utah’s Heritage Highway— Travel Utah’s Heritage Highway, also known as U.S. Route 89. Along the way, take a break in Spanish Fork at the Shri Shri Radha Krishna Temple. Travel further south to Cedar City and experience the traditional music and dance performances by the talented youth of the Southern Paiute Tribe. Finally, in Kanab, meet some of the adorable animals of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

Roots, Race & Culture hosts honest conversations about identity and culture, from the perspective of Utah’s Black and POC communities. Hosts Lonzo Liggins and Danor Gerald discuss shared experiences with newsmakers, changemakers, experts, artists, and entrepreneurs from Utah’s communities of color, all with a healthy dose of humor, empathy, and candor.

This Is Utah, hosted by Liz Adeola, guides viewers across the state to discover new and unique experiences, landmarks, cultures, and people. Watch stories about the arts, culture, places, and events, as told through the voices of the people and communities that make Utah unique.

Both programs can be streamed online at pbsutah.org or on the PBS app.