John Lansing, who as chief executive of NPR from 2019 until earlier this year guided the broadcasting organization through a global pandemic, an imploding media landscape and widening political polarization that called into question some of its journalistic principles, died on Aug. 14 at his home in Eagle River, Wis.
An NPR representative confirmed the death but did not cite a cause.
Mr. Lansing, who had been in the news business since he graduated from high school, arrived at NPR with a mission to broaden its reach beyond traditional radio into media like podcasts and newsletters.
He also announced what he considered his “north star”: a commitment to expand NPR’s audience to include a younger and more diverse demographic, and a parallel commitment to diversify, equity and inclusion in its coverage, sources and staff.
His changes included documenting the diversity of sources, introducing unconscious bias training and hiring people of color for both on- and off-air positions.
Persons:
John Lansing, Lansing
Organizations:
NPR
Locations:
Eagle River, Wis
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