NPR CEO John Lansing Dies at 67

John Lansing, the former chief executive of NPR, died on Wednesday at his lakeside home in Wisconsin, just six months after stepping down from his role and two weeks after celebrating his 67th birthday. Lansing was recognized for his significant influence on NPR’s workplace culture and his commitment to the network's mission of supporting democracy through informed public discourse. His leadership was particularly noted during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, as highlighted in a message from NPR's current leadership. Lansing began his journalism career at 17 as a studio technician in Paducah, Kentucky, and quickly advanced through various roles in local television news. He later became a prominent figure in media, serving as the chief of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees several federally funded international broadcasters. His tenure at NPR was marked by difficult decisions, including staff layoffs and buyouts, yet he garnered respect from unexpected quarters, including the newsroom union’s chief. In January 2020, Lansing publicly defended NPR against accusations from then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, showcasing his commitment to the network and its journalists. Colleagues praised his leadership style, with NPR’s chief communications officer, Isabel Lara, noting his ability to inspire others to excel. Despite recent challenges in the media landscape, including significant staff cuts at other major outlets, Lansing's legacy remains one of dedication to journalism and community service.