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,” said Murphy, in a WERU Board of Directors news release. “I feel the time has come for me to pass the torch on to the next generation of leadership of this great organization.”

According to the Board, Murphy’s retirement follows a landmark year for the station, 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 WERU Board of Directors will officially launch the search process in early March 2026. 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.

Despite his departure, Murphy expressed immense confidence in the station’s trajectory.

“We live in difficult times, but the future is bright for WERU," said Murphy. "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.”

The station will be available for formal interviews once the search process has officially commenced in early March. For more information send email to GMSEARCH@weru.org.

WERU (89.9 FM) Community Radio, established in 1988 and based in Orland, ME., is an independent, listener-supported, and volunteer-powered media organization, whose mission is to provide diverse programming to lift spirits, raise awareness and make connections.