Celebrating Nancy Kennedy: A Beacon of Change in Citrus County Journalism

In a heartwarming ceremony held on November 4, 2025, Nancy Kennedy, a dedicated journalist with the Citrus County Chronicle for over 30 years, was honored by Comcast as a "Champion of Change." This prestigious recognition celebrates Kennedy's remarkable contributions to local journalism and community storytelling, which have profoundly impacted the Citrus County area.

The event took place at the Old Courthouse Heritage Museum in Inverness, Florida, where a gathering of community leaders, family, and friends gathered to honor Kennedy. With tears of joy and applause filling the room, Kennedy was overwhelmed by the surprise celebration, unaware that Comcast had coordinated this event to recognize her lifelong dedication to the community and her role as a journalist.

Kennedy's body of work has transcended mere reporting; it has uplifted and inspired countless residents in Citrus County, documenting their struggles and triumphs with humanity and heart. Her coverage of local events, fundraisers, and stories of seniors and veterans has given a voice to those who often go unheard, reflecting both the beauty and complexity of everyday life in the community.

During the celebration, community leaders took to the stage to share personal anecdotes about Kennedy's profound influence. Nichelle Mohre-Cassidy, Executive Director of YaYAS of Citrus County, remarked, "Nancy is more than a journalist. She is a storyteller, a truth-seeker, and a compassionate voice for the voiceless. Her long-standing column, 'Grace Notes,' serves as a cherished fixture in our community, offering reflections on faith, resilience, and the beauty of everyday life."

In recognition of her impact, Citrus County Commissioners announced that November 4, 2025, would be officially declared "Nancy Kennedy Day." This honor reflects not only Kennedy's commitment to journalism but also her unwavering support for community development.

In a generous gesture to further enhance Kennedy's legacy of service, Comcast donated $10,000 to the YaYAS organization on her behalf, fulfilling many items on their wish list. Additionally, during the event, attendees heard from Elena Kilpatrick, Comcast's Vice President of Technical Operations for Florida, who highlighted the company's commitment to being a catalyst for community growth. "At Comcast, connectivity means more than just providing Wi-Fi; it's about linking people to opportunities and resources that help communities thrive," stated Kilpatrick. "The Champions of Change initiative was started to bring everyone together to recognize the invaluable storytellers who do incredible work."

The Champions of Change initiative serves to celebrate and uplift media professionals committed to diverse storytelling and representation, aiming to ensure that all voices are heard and every story is told. Reflecting on her work, Kennedy expressed, "I see myself as a storyteller. If my story inspires people in the community to take action, that is amazing. It's the readers who respond, and that interaction is beautiful."

Furthermore, Comcast recently announced an $8 million investment to expand high-speed Internet access in Citrus County to bridge the digital divide, benefiting residents in areas such as Inverness, Hernando, and Floral City. This initiative will also support local nonprofits, veterans, and small businesses to enhance overall connectivity and growth in the community.

As Kennedy continues to inspire through her writing and community involvement, the legacy of her passion for storytelling and service will undoubtedly endure, brightening the lives of Citrus County residents for generations to come.