University Reporter

By Kim Burke

WUMB played host to a national radio figure, Kevin Klose, president and CEO of National Public Radio, who visited UMass Boston on June 26. He spent the day learning about the folk radio format at WUMB and talking with students about the challenges of college radio programming.

Klose began his visit with a breakfast meeting with UMass President William S. Bulger at the President's Office. Members of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, WUMB, NPR, Boston radio station WILD, the Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities, and the Kennedy Library discussed creating diversity for the listening public and the strengths and popularity of WUMB's folk roots.

After a private luncheon with WUMB staff on the harbor campus' dock, Klose participated in a college roundtable discussion with area college radio stations. WUMB, Emerson College, Boston College, Tufts University, M.I.T., Curry College and Maynard High School students gave Klose uninhibited answers to questions about the types of radio programs that appeal to college radio listeners. He was eager to learn issues important to a demographic not typical of NPR. Klose explained, "In 30 years, NPR has never found a way to reach college broadcasters and repurpose it to make it available to college radio."

The forum also provided the opportunity for college radio managers to learn more about NPR and their resources. Students spoke of the challenges they face in the day-to-day programming of their stations. They told Klose they needed good quality news sources and would be interested in accessing NPR's programming.

Klose's visit, spearheaded by WUMB General Manager Pat Monteith through a meeting at a public radio conference, showcased the need for discussion among public radio stations. There was much learned on both sides of the table during the afternoon. The doors have been opened for future discussions and collaborations between WUMB and NPR.

NPR President and CEO Visits WUMB

By Kim Burke