NHPR's 45th anniversary is a testament to the power of community support and the enduring impact of public radio. As an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization, NHPR has weathered various challenges, from budget deficits to the loss of federal funding, and emerged stronger thanks to its dedicated listeners and readers. This article delves into NHPR's journey, highlighting key milestones and the transformative role of community engagement.
A Community-Driven Beginning
NHPR's story begins in 1979 when 50 New Hampshire residents envisioned a public radio station for their state. This ambitious goal became a reality in 1981 with the launch of WEVO (89.1 FM) from a modest studio in Concord. Initially focused on music, WEVO quickly evolved into a civic journalism powerhouse, broadcasting its first live election coverage during the 1984 New Hampshire presidential primary.
The station's early success was deeply intertwined with its listeners. In 1983, a $45,000 budget deficit threatened WEVO's survival, but over 1,000 listeners stepped up during an emergency fund drive, demonstrating the power of community support. This commitment fueled remarkable growth, leading to the launch of 'New Hampshire Daily' and a broader shift towards news.
Expanding Horizons and Local Content
Between 1985 and 1990, WEVO's listening audience nearly doubled, prompting General Manager Mark Handley to lead a period of ambitious expansion. The station rebranded as New Hampshire Public Radio and moved to a larger studio in Concord. Handley's leadership resulted in the construction of a statewide network of transmitters, extending NHPR's reach to Dover, Hanover, Keene, Gorham, Littleton, and the Mount Washington Valley.
To match this physical footprint with meaningful local content, NHPR launched 'Perspectives,' a local talk show hosted by Laura Kiernan from 1993 to 1997. Handley then recruited Laura Knoy, a former NPR newscaster, to launch 'The Exchange,' a flagship call-in show that defined statewide public dialogue for the next 25 years.
In 1998, Rosemary Conroy helped launch 'Something Wild,' an environmental segment created in partnership with New Hampshire Audubon and the Forest Society, which continues to this day. These early efforts laid the foundation for NHPR's commitment to local programming and community engagement.
A Modern Headquarters and New Formats
By 2001, NHPR shifted its focus entirely to a news-and-talk format, establishing itself as the Granite State's primary daily news outlet. This era saw the launch of local cultural favorites like 'The Front Porch,' featuring interviews with everyday Granite Staters and icons like poet Donald Hall. As staff expanded, physical space became tight, leading to the 'The Campaign for 21st Century Radio' in 2007, which raised $5 million for a modern broadcast facility.
The move to 2 Pillsbury St. in Concord ushered in a new era of programming. Shows like 'Word of Mouth' and 'Morning Edition' with Rick Ganley sparked creative energy across the content teams. NHPR's acquisition of WCNH in 2014 brought 'ClassicalNH' into its network, securing classical music programming that continues to be enjoyed by local audiences.
The Rise of Podcasts and Investigative Journalism
The 2010s saw the rise of podcasts, with 'Word of Mouth' evolving into 'Civics 101,' hosted by Hannah McCarthy and Nick Capodice, which has become a national hit. NHPR also expanded its environmental footprint with 'Outside/In' and 'Bear Brook,' establishing itself as a powerhouse for narrative investigative journalism.
In 2021, NHPR faced a significant transition, navigating the COVID-19 pandemic while bidding farewell to Laura Knoy, who retired after 25 years. Under President and CEO Jim Schachter, the station doubled down on its mission as a national content creator, launching an investigative team that produced award-winning accountability series.
A Community-Supported Future
Today, NHPR stands at a pivotal moment, now 100% community-supported following the loss of federal funding. President and CEO Jim Schachter emphasizes the station's commitment to public service and independent journalism, highlighting its accountability reporting, empathetic news coverage, and engaging events. NHPR remains vibrant because of its dedicated listeners and readers, who make independent journalism possible.
NHPR's journey is a testament to the enduring power of community support and public radio. As it continues to evolve, NHPR remains committed to bringing local programming that entertains, engages, and enlightens, celebrating all that makes New Hampshire unique.
