NPR Illinois 50th Anniversary

Funding cuts make a happy birthday harder

Community Voices addresses the recent cuts to CPB funding.

Bradley Swanson started at NPR Illinois in 1977 as Operations Director. He became general manager of the station in 1999 and retired in 2004. He spoke to Community Voices about his first impressions of public radio, the story behind the station's changing call letters, and advancements in technology and fundraising. Brad also talks about the importance of public radio.Listen to people share reflections and memories of the past 50 years of NPR Illinois all year long on Community Voices.

January 3, 2025, marks the official 50th anniversary of NPR Illinois! To celebrate, NPR Illinois will be getting a traveling exhibit made by the Sangamon Experience to highlight the history of the station called "Radio that Listens to You." Evie Rodenbaugh, Graduate Assistant for the Sangamon Experience, spoke to Community Voices about organizing the research for the exhibit, interesting people and former programming that have impacted the station, and how "Radio that Listens to You" relates to the core of NPR Illinois and public radio. The Sangamon Experience wants to hear your stories and memories about NPR Illinois whether you are a former employee, current listener, or donor. To connect with them, please email sangamonexperience@uis.edu or call 217-206-8051. More details about the opening date and location of the exhibit will be announced soon.