Centre Foundation Establishes Public Media Fund to Support WHYY’s Mission to Sustain WPSU

State College, PA – January 15, 2026 – In response to strong community concern and a shared commitment to the future of local public media, Centre Foundation has partnered with donors and regional leaders to establish the Public Media for Northern and Central Pennsylvania Fund. The fund is dedicated to supporting WHYY, the Philadelphia-based public media organization, as it works to sustain WPSU Public Media, the public radio and television stations serving Central and Northern Pennsylvania, as a trusted, local public media resource. 

“This fund was created in direct response to deep community concern about the future of a vital public television and radio resource,” said David Lieb, President and CEO of Centre Foundation. “Donors were looking for clarity and a trusted, local way to support WPSU, one that reflects the values and long-term needs of our region.” 

WHYY is working closely with Penn State and WPSU to acquire WPSU and ensure its long-term sustainability, while keeping its local programming, staff, and community identity intact. Funds raised through the Public Media for Northern and Central Pennsylvania Fund will be used solely to support WHYY’s acquisition and ongoing operation of WPSU and will not be directed to Penn State University. This effort is designed to preserve WPSU jobs, retain local expertise, and maintain WPSU’s presence and service across the region, not to dismantle the station or replace its people or programming. 

WPSU remains a critical public service across the region. Many residents, particularly those in rural areas without reliable internet, depend on its over-the-air radio and television broadcasts for news, education, and connection. The station also plays an important role in preparing Penn State students for careers in journalism, education, and public service, helping train the next generation of civic storytellers. 

Public media matters, especially now. As misinformation spreads quickly and trust in information sources is increasingly challenged, WPSU continues to provide accurate reporting, thoughtful context, and programming rooted in community needs. Supporting public media means safeguarding access to reliable information and strengthening the civic fabric of the region. This fund ensures that support for WPSU remains focused on service, integrity, and local impact. 

To support WHYY and its mission to sustain WPSU, donate to the Public Media for Northern and Central Pennsylvania Fund at Centre Foundation:
https://centrefoundation.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3442 

To explore additional ways to give, contact Kerry Tolton, Development and Stewardship Director, at kerry@centrefoundation.org or 814.237.6226. Gifts by check may be made payable to Centre Foundation, with “Public Media for Northern and Central Pennsylvania Fund” noted in the memo line, and mailed to: 

Centre Foundation
1377 Ridge Master Drive
State College, PA 16803 

Centre Foundation fosters a culture of giving, supports and empowers nonprofits, and sparks positive community change.