WSIU: Strengthening Our Mission in Changing Times
Since 1958, WSIU Public Broadcasting has been a trusted voice in southern Illinois and beyond. Born at Southern Illinois University, WSIU was designed as more than just radio and television; it was imagined as a community classroom and a public square.
Today, our network of television stations and three radio stations provides coverage to parts of Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana, reaching over five million people. No other university-licensed public media outlet in Illinois matches this scale. From educational programming for children to in-depth journalism and cultural storytelling, WSIU is a vital lifeline of information and connection.
Federal funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has long been a lifeline for local stations like ours. But in recent years, appropriations have shrunk while costs to maintain equipment and distribution systems continue to rise. Now, CPB has ceased operations as federal funding was eliminated. Because of the loss of federal funds through CPB, WSIU has lost $1.4 million, or 24 percent of our annual budget.
For WSIU, the stakes are especially high. Maintaining five transmitters across rural areas requires constant technical upkeep. Our current distribution system, which delivers the signal to those transmitters, is aging and out of support, making upgrades both urgent and expensive. Federal reductions put at risk not only our programming but also our public safety role in carrying emergency alerts.
“Our legacy is built on service. And that will not change.”
Rising to the Moment
WSIU is responding to these challenges with resilience and vision.
1. Investing in Technology
We are upgrading our broadcast distribution system to ensure reliable service for the future. These improvements will protect emergency alert delivery and open new opportunities for multiple program streams.
2. Expanding Partnerships
With collaborations both inside and outside of the university, WSIU is building partnerships that multiply the impact of every dollar.
3. Training the Next Generation
As part of SIU, WSIU provides hands-on training for students in journalism, production, and broadcasting. Our students gain real-world experience while enriching WSIU programming a win for both learners and viewers.
4. Diversifying Revenue
We are pursuing grants, leasing broadcast spectrum where possible, and building national content partnerships, as well as business underwriting. Each of these helps reduce reliance on federal dollars while protecting public access.
The Public Safety Imperative
Tornadoes, floods, and severe storms are part of life in our region. When danger strikes, WSIU’s transmitters carry the Emergency Alert System, delivering timely information that saves lives.
This isn’t just programming—it’s public safety infrastructure. Losing or weakening this capacity would leave many rural residents vulnerable. That’s why upgrading our technical backbone is not just a priority, it’s a responsibility.
“WSIU isn’t just culture and education—it’s also safety.”
Why Your Support Matters
Community support has always powered public broadcasting. Today, it is more important than ever.
When you support WSIU, you are:
• Helping children start school, ready to learn.
• Backing local journalists who tell the stories of our region.
• Preserving cultural programming that inspires curiosity.
• Ensuring reliable emergency alerts for rural communities.
Every membership gift, sponsorship, or philanthropic contribution directly strengthens WSIU’s ability to serve southern Illinois.
Looking Ahead
The road ahead is challenging, but also full of possibilities. WSIU is sharpening its mission, strengthening partnerships, and embracing innovation.
Our promise is clear:
• We will remain a trusted educational partner for families.
• We will continue to be a training ground for future media professionals.
• We will serve as a lifeline of safety and information for rural communities.
With your support, we will continue to connect, inform, and inspire generations to come.
“Public media is about more than programs—it’s about people.”
How You Can Help WSIU Move Forward
• Join as a Member → Every contribution matters.
• Sponsor as a Business → Reach audiences while giving back.
• Make a Legacy Gift → Ensure public media endures for future generations.
• Partner with Us → Schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations are welcome.
Visit wsiu.org/support to learn more.
Sincerely,
Larry Hunter
Interim Executive Director WSIU Public Broadcasting
SIU Radio & Television, Class of 1983