1/16/26

Since 1964, WBGU-PBS has been a valued part of our community, providing learning experiences and opportunities for Bowling Green State University students while serving 19 counties across northwest Ohio with educational and community-focused programming. As a viewer or a member, you have been an important part of our story, generously supporting PBS programming and services at WBGU, greatly enriching our communities. 

Last year, the federal government announced the elimination of funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which has subsequently closed. For WBGU, the federal government’s decision to eliminate this funding meant a loss of $1.1 million annually – or more than 40% of its operating funding. 

Given the loss of nearly half of our operating budget, it has been determined that without federal funding, carrying PBS programming and its associated dues is an unsustainable long-term financial model. Thus, WBGU announced it will stop airing PBS programming as of June 30, 2026. In its place, WBGU will broadcast the free Ohio Channel, and will sunset locally produced shows, including "The Journal" and "BGSU Brain Game," due to both federal and state funding cuts. 

Bowling Green State University has identified a pathway that allows WBGU to remain a broadcasting unit within Bowling Green with limited operations. Moving forward, our work will focus on livestreaming services, including BGSU Commencement, athletic and arts events, and more. Additionally, the University and WBGU will continue to identify new learning opportunities for students under this model, while serving the community in innovative ways. This planning is ongoing, and we look forward to continuing to leverage our broadcast capabilities for our students and northwest Ohio in the future.

As a supporter of WBGU and PBS, we recognize the disappointment this announcement brings. It comes today as we didn’t feel it was right to ask you, and all our donors, for continued support ahead of the upcoming PBS Pledge fundraising campaign, which launches nationally this spring, knowing we face an unsustainable financial model. 
 
We are deeply appreciative of your support, not only for WBGU, but for the students of Bowling Green and for all the communities WBGU serves. 

Sincerely,

Tom Cummings
General Manager WBGU-PBS