Minnesota Public Radio's Saint Paul Headquarters to be Named After Founder, Bill Kling

Apr 13, 2017

Media contact: Jen Keavy 651-290-1271

Minnesota Public Radio announced today that it is renaming its Saint Paul headquarters and broadcast facilities the Kling Public Media Center, after its visionary founder, William H. Kling.

In 2011, in anticipation of Kling's retirement, the MPR Board of Trustees made the decision to dedicate the building, which also is the headquarters for American Public Media Group, in the founder's name, but decided to wait until the occasion of the organization's 50th anniversary to officially make the designation.

"The Board wanted to ensure that what Bill built in the culture, and the values that he embodies would be forever part of Minnesota Public Radio and American Public Media," said Randall Hogan, MPR Board chair in 2011. "Naming the building is a permanent public recognition for his vision and his impact on the industry, the state and the country."

"Our 50th anniversary is the perfect time to honor what Bill created and built. His entrepreneurial spirit and passion for public service continue to inspire us as we begin our next 50 years," said Jon McTaggart, president and CEO of American Public Media Group. "What Bill has done - not just for Minnesota and MPR, but for public media audiences across the country - is unique and lasting. The creativity and innovation within the walls of the Kling Public Media Center will always be a living testament to what Bill began a half century ago."

The naming dedication will take place during a private event on April 19. New signage will be placed at the building entrances and in the lobby.

Minnesota Public Radio marks its first half century of public service in 2017 with broadcast programming and special events on air, online and in person across the state. Details at mpr50.org.