A group made up of 15 public radio stations in the United States has launched the Black Public Radio Network.
They describe it as a unique coalition “dedicated to strengthening the future of Black public radio through collaboration, innovation, revenue growth and cultural impact.”
It was founded by Ernest Walker, general manager of KTSU(FM) in Houston, who will serve as its president. The stations are listed at bottom.
“BPRN’s founding affiliates include 12 stations licensed to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), along with respected public radio brands WBGO New York, The Drop Denver and HYFIN Milwaukee,” BPRN said in an announcement.
During a six-month planning phase, Paragon is providing consulting services, and VuHaus Group will support the development of national sponsorship sales opportunities. Joining Paragon for the project are Jacquie Gales Webb, former VP/Radio at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and Nikki Swarn, former general manager of KUVO/The Drop Denver.
“The launch of BPRN comes at a critical moment for public media, as stations nationwide face increasing financial pressures, evolving audience behavior, and the need for stronger long-term infrastructure,” according to the announcement.
“BPRN was established to help member stations strengthen revenue opportunities, expand national visibility, foster innovation, and create a more unified and sustainable future for Black public radio.”
Walker said the network wants to position Black public radio “for greater influence, innovation and impact.”
The founding members are:
WBGO 88.3FM, Newark Public Radio (Newark, N.J.)
KTSU 90.9FM, Texas Southern University (Houston, Texas)
KPVU 91.3FM, Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View, Texas)
WCLK 91.9FM, Clark Atlanta University (Atlanta, Ga.)
THE DROP 104.7FM (Denver, Colo.)
WNCU 90.7FM, North Carolina Central University (Durham, N.C.)
WEAA 88.9FM, Morgan State University (Baltimore, Md.)
HYFIN (Milwaukee, Wis.)
WNSB 91.1FM, Norfolk State University (Norfolk, Va.)
WJAB 90.9FM, Alabama A&M University (Huntsville, Ala.)
KJLU 88.9FM, Lincoln University (Jefferson City, Mo.)
WRVS 89.9FM, Elizabeth City State University (Elizabeth City, N.C.)
WSSB 90.3FM, South Carolina State University (Orangeburg, S.C.)
WURC 88.1FM, Rust College (Holly Springs, Miss.)
WESM 91.3FM, University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Salisbury, Md.)
