As of March 2026, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has officially ceased operations, marking a significant turning point for public media in the United States. This development ends over fifty years of CPB’s influence, which provided essential funding and support to numerous local media outlets. The abrupt dissolution of this key institution leaves a void in national initiatives and financial backing that many local stations relied upon to fulfill their public service missions.
The loss of CPB is profound, as it not only dismantles a long-standing framework for public broadcasting but also removes the Community Service Grants that supported many local operations. Perhaps the most notable absence is that of Patricia de Stacy Harrison, who served as CPB’s president for two decades. Her leadership embodied a golden era marked by advocacy, innovation, and a commitment to enhancing public media’s role in American society.
Throughout my career, spanning both commercial and public media, I have witnessed the evolution of journalism. The decline of major networks such as CBS, ABC, and NBC has been stark, as these institutions grapple with maintaining public trust amid consolidation and budget cuts. In contrast, public media has consistently upheld its dedication to truth, education, and community engagement.
Reflections on Leadership and Legacy
During her tenure, Pat Harrison was a formidable advocate for the democratic purpose of public broadcasting. Her visionary speeches at national conferences inspired many within the sector, reinforcing our belief in the transformative power of public media. I personally experienced this during my leadership at Milwaukee PBS, where we collaborated with local and national partners on important issues such as the alarming rise in teen suicide in Wisconsin. Upon sharing our documentary, “Kids in Crisis: You’re Not Alone,” with Harrison, I received immediate recognition of its significance and support in amplifying our work across the national stage.
Harrison’s ability to elevate local journalism and leverage CPB’s resources was invaluable. She understood the importance of identifying impactful work and spreading it throughout the public media landscape. Her efforts not only strengthened local voices but also ensured that diverse perspectives remained part of the media conversation.
The decision to dissolve CPB stemmed from actions by the current administration, which included the rescission of previously appropriated federal funds for public broadcasting. This decision highlights the precarious nature of public-serving institutions in the current political climate. For nearly sixty years, CPB played a crucial role in fostering democratic discourse and enriching American culture.
Moving Forward with Resolve
While we collectively mourn the loss of CPB, it is essential to approach this new chapter with gratitude for its contributions. Under Harrison’s leadership, CPB and its dedicated staff tirelessly advocated for public radio and television stations, serving millions who relied on these platforms for education, civic engagement, and community connection. Their efforts have established a resilient public media community that is well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead.
As we transition into this new era without the structure and guidance provided by CPB, we must embrace innovation and collaboration. The legacy of CPB extends beyond its bureaucratic framework; it lives on in the institutions and individuals it empowered. The mission of public media remains unchanged—it is evolving and adapting to meet the needs of our society.
The spirit of public service that defined CPB continues to guide us. Public media is not solely reliant on funding or policy; it is about serving the community and fostering informed discourse. As we look to the future, it is crucial to remember that public media thrives in every newsroom, studio, and classroom committed to building a more informed and empathetic nation. The mission of public media is not diminished; rather, it is a call to action for all who believe in its enduring value.