A New Era in Public Media: Black Public Radio Network Formally Launches, Led by KTSU’s Ernest Walker

June 30, 2026

A monumental new chapter has officially arrived for public radio. Four years in the making, Black public radio now has a powerful, collective national voice with the formal launch of the Black Public Radio Network (BPRN). Standing at the forefront of this historic milestone is our very own General Manager, Ernest Walker, who is proudly leading the charge alongside 15 dynamic founding stations from across the country.

BPRN is designed to amplify the reach of culturally relevant storytelling while building a sustainable future for public media. Plans are already underway to build out national underwriting and sponsorship opportunities, with the VuHaus Group stepped up to support national sponsorship sales. Additionally, industry leader Paragon has signed on for a six-month agreement to serve as BPRN’s consulting partner, providing critical research and strategic guidance to propel the network forward.

Unity in Representation: The 15 Founding Stations

The network brings together a powerhouse coalition of 15 founding stations spanning 13 states, representing trusted cultural anchors across the nation:

• KTSU 90.9 FM “The Choice” – Houston, TX
• KUVO “The Drop” – Denver, CO
• WBGO – Newark, NJ
• KPVU – Prairie View, TX
• WCLK – Atlanta, GA
• WNCU – Durham, NC
• WEAA – Baltimore, MD
• HYFIN – Milwaukee, WI
• WNSB – Norfolk, VA
• WJAB – Huntsville, AL
• KJLU – Jefferson City, MO
• WRVS – Elizabeth City, NC
• WSSB – Orangeburg, SC
• WURC – Holly Springs, MS
• WESM – Salisbury, MD

A Word From Leadership

Reflecting on the magnitude of this launch, KTSU General Manager Ernest Walker emphasized the profound responsibility and bright future ahead for the network:

“The launch of the Black Public Radio Network represents a transformative moment for public media and for the communities our stations serve,” Walker said. “For decades, Black public radio stations have served as trusted cultural anchors, storytellers, and community connectors. BPRN is about bringing our collective strength together to create a sustainable future, expand opportunity, and ensure our voices continue to be heard and valued on a national level.”

As KTSU continues to celebrate our own record-breaking milestones and decades of service right here in Houston, we are incredibly honored to help lead this national movement. BPRN is proof that when we bring our collective strength together, there is no limit to how far our voices can go!

Stay tuned to KTSU 90.9 FM “The Choice” for more updates on this exciting nationwide journey!