Laurie Rabin: Reflections on 15 Years of the Joan Ganz Cooney Center

During my junior year of college, I came across the Cooney Center while looking for potential internship opportunities. To be clear, they hadn’t posted an internship, but I just knew I had to get in. After pestering Lori Takeuchi, I wore her down and I became an undergrad intern during the summer of 2012. It was worth the pestering.

After spending just a few days in the corner of the Workshop that housed the Cooney Center, it was obvious that this small but mighty team was simply the most intelligent, kind-hearted, and genuine group. It was also clear that the office was awesome and there were muppets everywhere —that’s not to be understated. But the team truly cared about the mission and the research, and didn’t mind having some fun along the way. It was one of my first real “work world” experiences, and it set a high bar. As an undergrad intern, I did a lot of data entry, transcribing, and data coding, but I learned a lot about the intricacies of kids and digital media research. In addition, I was provided with a lot of food for thought about the research path versus the content path, and where my career might go. A decade later, I now work on the content side, producing animated educational shows for preschool and bridge audiences. The background in the mission and research-driven mindset has helped me center what’s important in each project along the way. 

Ultimately, the most meaningful impact the Center had on me was the opportunity to be part of a team where everyone’s opinions are valued—even the undergraduate intern. The people make the place, and the leadership and passion I observed have been greatly impactful, even 10 years later. Also, the time I met Joan Ganz Cooney is in the highlight reel of my life. Along with the time I got to meet Elmo. Hey, it’s a pretty cool place. 

Happy Anniversary, JGCC!

 

Laurie Rabin is a producer, writer, and kid’s media creator. She has worked for Nickelodeon, Houghton Mifflin, & the Cooney Center @ Sesame Workshop. She helped create & launch interactive Play-Along Videos for Noggin and produced Chico Bon Bon: Monkey with a Tool Belt for Netflix. Currently, she is the Supervising Producer on Liza Loops (w.t.) coming to PBS Kids in 2024.