Utah Public Radio has named Frank Mueller as its new station manager, following the departures of longtime leaders Kerry Bringhurst and Tom Williams. Mueller joins the Logan-based network from Penn State's WPSU, where he served as the Director of Programming and Broadcast Operations, to lead the statewide public media service.
A Career in Broadcasting
Mueller enters the role with a career spanning decades in radio management, public broadcasting, and higher education. According to Utah State University, Mueller officially stepped into the position on July 1, succeeding Bringhurst and Williams following their retirements this summer. His leadership is expected to focus on providing trusted news, thoughtful conversation, and community-centered programming to listeners across the region.
Before his recent tenure at Penn State, Mueller built a significant career in the public media sector. He began his public media journey at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, at KUNV. During his time there, he managed station operations before ultimately advancing to the position of general manager. In that role, he worked to expand student opportunities while simultaneously growing the station's audience.
Professional Background and Education
In addition to his leadership of Utah Public Radio, Mueller will hold a faculty position as professional practice faculty in Utah State University's College of Arts and Sciences. His professional background includes experience in both the public and commercial sectors. Prior to his return to public broadcasting at Penn State, Mueller owned and operated Lucky Dog Broadcasting, a small radio group located in Utah Valley, and also served as an instructor at Utah Valley University.
Mueller has expressed a long-standing interest in the medium, noting that his passion for radio was sparked at age 13 after visiting a local station in Modesto, California. He stated that while he had loved listening to the radio since early childhood, seeing the operations behind the scenes convinced him to pursue a career in the field.
Network Reach and Mission
Utah Public Radio operates as a service of Utah State University's Department of Communication, providing news, public affairs, cultural programming, and educational content designed to enrich civic life and connect Utah communities. The station broadcasts from Logan through an extensive network consisting of six full-power stations and approximately 30 translators.
This network reaches more than half of Utah's population, as well as portions of southern Idaho. The flagship station, 91.5 KUSU-FM, has been broadcasting since 1953. The full-power network includes 89.5 KUSR in Logan, 88.5 KUSK in Vernal, 89.3 KUSL in Richfield, 88.7 KUST in Moab, and 89.7 KCEU in Price.
Return to Utah
Mueller expressed enthusiasm regarding his return to the state, noting his interest in the local landscape. "Im excited to be back in beautiful Utah," Mueller said. "Whether biking, hiking or scouting, there's a good chance youll meet me on the trail."
Leadership Transition
The transition in leadership at Utah Public Radio comes after decades of service by its previous leaders. Both Kerry Bringhurst and Tom Williams concluded their tenures this summer, marking a significant shift for the Logan-operated station. Mueller's arrival aims to continue the station's mission of public service through digital platforms, broadcast transmitters, and locally produced programming.
Operational Oversight
As station manager, Mueller is tasked with overseeing broadcast operations, programming, audience development, and student engagement initiatives. His role is central to the station's ability to serve its diverse listener base through its multifaceted distribution network.
