The Palm Beach Civic Association (PBCA), a non-profit organization aimed to “protect and improve the quality of life” for Palm Beach residents, held its annual Community Service Award Breakfast Feb. 2 and featured American journalist Lester Holt as their keynote speaker. During his presentation, Mr. Holt talked about his time working for NBC’s Nightly News, the role of democracy in freedom of speech, and his insight into starting a career in journalism.

Through an invitation from the School of the Arts Foundation, journalism students and communication seniors Griffin Petti, Lila Goldin, and Sienna Sossi, as well as Principal Blake Bennett and journalism teachers Carly Gates and Joseph Raciovich, were in attendance. 

“We need good journalists,” Mr. Holt said during the speech. “We need people who are fresh, who understand the importance of what we do.” 

The event opened with the pledge of allegiance led by students from both the school and Suncoast Community High School, and it was followed by a speech rewarding philanthropist Thomas C. Quick with the Bill Brooks Community Service Award. Breakfast was served, and as participants dined, Mr. Holt was brought to the stage for an interview with PBCA chairman Michael Pucillo.

When Mr. Holt was asked how he handles covering “dark stories,” he responded that he tries to show “hope” in the world. Later, he also shared that one of his hobbies outside of his career is playing the bass and that he is a part of a band called the “Rough Cuts” with other NBC employees. 

“It’s important to find that joy outside of what you’re known for.” Mr. Holt said.