Fred McFeely Rogers (1928 -2003) was a pioneer in children's television and early childhood development, and was the host of the long-running, beloved PBS show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." For his work, he received a Lifetime Emmy Award, induction into the Television Hall of Fame, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Before all that, however, Mr. Rogers was a kid who faced challenges just like the rest of us. Severe asthma often kept him homebound, especially in the summer, making it difficult for him to make friends. Children at school bullied him, especially for his weight, and called him "Fat Freddy." The teasing and isolation perpetuated shyness, insecurity, and isolation in young Fred Rogers .
But those struggles as a kid also taught him the valuable lessons that made him the incredible person he grew to be: empathy, self-reflection, gentleness, understanding, childlike wonder, compassion, and, above all, kindness. As Mister Rogers counsels, "There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind."
To Fred Rogers, everyone was a neighbor deserving of kindness - absolutely everyone - and for 33 years and 895 episodes that was the ultimate message conveyed to the millions who watched "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." This month, in honor of his morality and legacy, we honor Fred McFeely Rogers on the second floor of the library. Thank you, Mr. Rogers!