“Creating the future of public media by amplifying voices to inform include and inspire.” That is the mission of Minnesota Public Radio. Right here we stand before a cornerstone of broadcasting excellence. It’s more than just a radio station. Minnesota Public Radio is a vital public service.
Minnesota Public Radio began its broadcasting journey on January 22 1967. It started from Saint John’s University in Collegeville Minnesota. Father Colman Barry and Bill Kling shaped Minnesota Public Radio. They had the vision to create this important organization.
Since those early days Minnesota Public Radio has grown. It now operates a 45-station radio network. This network reaches nearly all of Minnesota and parts of surrounding states. Each week one million listeners tune into MPR’s three regional services. These are MPR News YourClassical MPR and The Current.
Minnesota Public Radio delivers vital public services throughout Minnesota. It supports the state’s Emergency Alert System. It also supports the AMBER Alert System for child-abduction warnings. Additionally it provides Radio Talking Book. This is a reading service for the Minnesota State Services for the Blind.
Minnesota Public Radio has earned over 1000 broadcasting and journalism awards. These include seven George Foster Peabody Awards and six Robert F Kennedy Journalism Awards. Also they received an Alfred I duPont-Columbia University Gold Baton Award and a Grammy Award.
American Public Media manages Minnesota Public Radio’s national programming. APM is a large producer and distributor of public radio programming. Its programs reach 20 million listeners on nearly 1000 radio stations nationwide each week.
MPR News has reporters in six Greater Minnesota bureaus. These are in Moorhead Bemidji Duluth Collegeville Rochester and Worthington. These reporters ensure statewide coverage.
Minnesota Public Radio is transitioning to digital platforms. This ensures younger audiences can access their content. MPR is partnering with KMOJ to launch Carbon Sound. This focuses on Black music and local voices.
Minnesota Public Radio’s commitment extends to various music services online. Carbon Sound focuses on R&B and Black artists. Local Current features music from Minnesota artists. Purple Current is inspired by Prince. Rock The Cradle is geared toward children and parents. Radio Heartland features Americana and roots music.
Listener contributions form a significant part of Minnesota Public Radio’s budget. These contributions from individuals corporations and foundations account for 60%. This support underscores the value placed on Minnesota Public Radio’s services.
Minnesota Public Radio embraces its mission. It amplifies voices informs includes and inspires. It connects Minnesota to itself. This commitment ensures Minnesota Public Radio’s continued relevance. It makes it an essential part of the state’s media landscape.