Public News/Talk 90.7 KWMU St. Louis and the duo of Public News/Talk 90.3 KCUR-FM Kansas City and “Classical 91.9” KWJC Liberty MO will each separate to independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations over the next three years.
“St. Louis Public Radio” will be transferred from University of Missouri-St. Louis to Friends of KWMU Inc. and continue to be led by CEO Tina Pamintuan. The announcement stated that the “decision reflects a shared vision for ensuring the station’s continued relevance and ability to adapt in a rapidly changing public media landscape.” By operating under its own governing board, they say, “STLPR will be better positioned to innovate, expand its reach, and strengthen its financial sustainability while maintaining its commitment to informing, educating, and engaging its listeners”.
Pamintuan stated, “A transition to independence is a bold move that reflects the strength of St. Louis Public Radio and its commitment to serving the community. It also reflects the unwavering support of our donors and friends, whose contributions have made STLPR what it is today. As an organization, the culture we have built over the last three years positions us to succeed in this moment thanks to the extraordinary strength of our staff, operations, and strategic plan.”
KCUR and KWJC will be separated from University of Missouri-Kansas City to Friends of KCUR Inc. led by General Manager Sarah Morris. UMKC has operated KCUR since 1957. The separation will transfer administrative services to the new organization.
Morris said, “We’re excited to start this new chapter in our longstanding relationship with the University of Missouri system. Our association with UMKC has made it possible for us to provide Kansas City audiences with essential news and entertainment programs for decades. But as our industry evolves ever more quickly, this bold move allows us the flexibility to adapt in real time.”
UMSL Chancellor Kristin Sobolik said, “This is a transformative moment for St. Louis Public Radio. The move to independence allows STLPR to chart its own course while staying true to its mission of providing high-quality journalism and community service. We believe this transition will empower the station to remain a vital resource of unbiased news for our region and beyond. UMSL is fully supportive of this direction, which is aligned with the UM System, and we will continue to work closely with the station to ensure a smooth and successful transition.”
UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal commented, “The radio stations have been a valued part of our campus and Kansas City community for many years, informing and engaging our community with their high-quality news and programming. This transition will set the stage for them to flourish and grow for decades to come. We remain committed to actively supporting this transition and will work closely with the station and the community-led nonprofit to ensure they have the resources and tools needed to succeed.”
University of Missouri System Board of Curators Chairman Todd Graves added, “The Curators are supportive of the recommendations from our chancellors at UMKC and UMSL. Together, we are confident that this transition will position stations in both communities for success in the years ahead.” The moves will not affect the university system’s operation of its three radio stations or television station in Columbia MO.
