Longtime WERU head retiring
Community radio station ‘perfectly poised to welcome new leadership,’ says Matt Murphy, general manager for past 25 years
Feb. 4, 2026
By staff
Matt Murphy, who has led WERU for 25 years. Photo courtesy of WERU.
ORLAND—After a quarter-century at the helm of WERU Community Radio, general manager Matt Murphy has announced his intention to retire in 2026.
“For 25 years I have had the honor, privilege, and joy of serving as General Manager of WERU,” Murphy said in a press release issued by the station. “I feel the time has come for me to pass the torch on to the next generation of leadership of this great organization.”
Murphy’s retirement follows a landmark year for WERU, which recently celebrated its most successful fundraising year in its history. He plans to remain in his current role until a successor is found “to ensure a seamless transition,” the release said.
The station’s board of directors will launch the search process for Murphy’s replacement in early March.
“The Board has established a search committee to conduct a comprehensive local and national search for the next General Manager. Information regarding the position and the application process will be posted on weru.org in the coming weeks,” the announcement said.
Murphy expressed confidence in the station’s trajectory.
“We live in difficult times, but the future is bright for WERU. Our listener support has never been stronger, our volunteers are as dedicated as ever, our Board of Directors and staff are extremely capable, our music and public affairs programming continues to be excellent, and the station is perfectly poised to welcome new leadership,” he said.
WERU first went on the air in 1988, broadcasting from the studio of musician Noel Paul Stookey housed in a former South Blue Hill chicken barn known as “The Henhouse.” The station moved its operations to Orland in 1997. It remains an independent, listener-supported media organization, with a stated mission of providing “diverse programming to lift spirits, raise awareness and make connections.”
The station started with 12 hours of programming each day. It now broadcasts 24 hours a day, with volunteer DJs and hosts, airing an eclectic variety of programs, including folk, blues, rock and other genres, as well as features and news programs.
