Rochester in Focus: March 8, 2026

News10NBC's public affairs show explores local organizations and events

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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This week on Rochester in Focus, News10NBC's Lynette Adams interviews several guests, including the executive director of St. John Fisher University's Golisano Institute of Developmental Disability Nursing, a song-writing pastor and the artistic director of the Rochester Oratorial Society, the founder of Totally Unique Educational Consultants and the Totally Unique Institute of Excellence, and the director of communications at The Little Theatre.

Why it matters

Rochester in Focus provides an in-depth look at important local issues, events and organizations, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the community and the people making a difference.

The details

The episode features interviews with Dr. Holly Brown, the executive director of St. John Fisher University's Golisano Institute of Developmental Disability Nursing, who discusses the importance and impact of the program. Pastor Daryl Smith and Dr. Eric Townell, the artistic director of the Rochester Oratorial Society, share their collaborative journey after connecting on a previous episode. Dr. Pamala Brown-Grinion, the founder of Totally Unique Educational Consultants and the Totally Unique Institute of Excellence, talks about her new book 'She Rises' and her work helping individuals with personal growth. Scott Pukos, the director of communications at The Little Theatre, discusses preparations for Oscar night and providing a great experience for attendees.

  • The episode aired on March 8, 2026.

The players

Dr. Holly Brown

The executive director of St. John Fisher University's Golisano Institute of Developmental Disability Nursing.

Pastor Daryl Smith

A song-writing pastor who collaborated with the artistic director of the Rochester Oratorial Society.

Dr. Eric Townell

The artistic director of the Rochester Oratorial Society who collaborated with a song-writing pastor.

Dr. Pamala Brown-Grinion

The founder of Totally Unique Educational Consultants and the Totally Unique Institute of Excellence, and the author of the book 'She Rises'.

Scott Pukos

The director of communications at The Little Theatre.

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What they’re saying

“St. John Fisher University's Golisano Institute of Developmental Disability Nursing is making strides in the field, according to Dr. Holly Brown, the executive director.”

— Dr. Holly Brown, Executive Director, St. John Fisher University's Golisano Institute of Developmental Disability Nursing (whec.com)

“After seeing each other on Rochester in Focus, they teamed up to create music. Smith's song, 'The Reek,' and Townell's announcement of the new season sparked their partnership.”

— Pastor Daryl Smith and Dr. Eric Townell, Song-writing Pastor and Artistic Director, Rochester Oratorial Society (whec.com)

“Dr. Pamala Brown-Grinion discussed her new book, 'She Rises,' which explores emotional etiquette and personal growth. As the founder of Totally Unique Educational Consultants and the Totally Unique Institute of Excellence, Brown-Grinion aims to help individuals improve from within.”

— Dr. Pamala Brown-Grinion, Founder, Totally Unique Educational Consultants and Totally Unique Institute of Excellence (whec.com)

“Director of Communications Scott Pukos talks about preparing for Oscar night, aiming to provide a great experience for attendees.”

— Scott Pukos, Director of Communications, The Little Theatre (whec.com)

The takeaway

Rochester in Focus provides valuable insights into the local organizations, events and individuals making a difference in the community, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the issues and initiatives that are shaping the city.