Stephen George Elected to NPR Board of Directors

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 20, 2025 | 3:45pm CT

Stephen George

NPR has announced the election of Stephen George to its Board of Directors as a Public Director. George, who currently serves as Head of Emerging Markets for the American Journalism Project, was elected by the Board on November 14, 2024, and later confirmed by NPR's Membership on February 7. He fills an expired term vacancy set to run through November 2027 and was formally seated on February 20, 2025.

George expressed his commitment to NPR's journalistic mission, stating, "Fact-based, independent journalism is essential to understanding our world today -- from our neighborhoods to our nation's capital, from hollers in my home state of Kentucky to cities and towns around the globe. NPR takes us there and back every day." He added, "I'm thrilled to continue my service on the Board at this critical moment for NPR and journalism across America, and I'm eager for the important work ahead."

NPR's Board of Directors consists of 23 members, including 12 Member Directors elected by NPR Member stations, 9 Public Directors selected by the Board and confirmed by Member stations, as well as the NPR Foundation Chair and the NPR President & CEO.

With a career deeply rooted in journalism, George has worked as a reporter, editor, and executive in various roles. Before joining the American Journalism Project, he was the President and CEO of Louisville Public Media (LPM), where he expanded the newsroom, launched new products, grew the audience, and boosted revenue development. He also served as NPR's Member Director from February 2023 to December 2024 while leading LPM.

Prior to his tenure at LPM, George was executive editor of the organization, overseeing journalism that earned a Peabody Award. He has also worked as editor-in-chief of the Nashville City Paper and LEO Weekly, with his writing featured in various local, state, and national publications.