KUNC Named New News Director Following Merger

The appointment of Linda Carpio Shapley coincides with the station's relocation to a new Fort Collins facility.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Media

KUNC Named New News Director Following Merger

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KUNC has appointed Linda Carpio Shapley as news director as it merges with Rocky Mountain Public Media. The leadership change accompanies the station's transition from Greeley to a new 7,000-square-foot studio space in Fort Collins.

Why it matters

The leadership change and relocation reflect a broader consolidation of regional media assets. Operators should watch how this structural integration shifts news coverage and local market reach for the combined organization.

The acquisition involves a new $3.5 million facility and the transfer of stations including 91.5 FM, 105.5 FM, 89.3 FM, and 104.7 FM. The move consolidates operations into a 7,000-square-foot building in Fort Collins.

The players

Linda Carpio Shapley

An experienced media executive with a background at The Denver Post and Colorado Community Media who previously served as interim president of CSU's student media.

KUNC

A public radio station formerly based in Greeley that is integrating into a larger regional network.

Rocky Mountain Public Media

The parent organization managing the acquisition of multiple public radio licenses and facilities.

The details

The integration follows an asset purchase agreement signed June 30, 2026, and federal approval granted on August 13. By relocating to 300 E. Mountain Ave., the station moves its production hub to a larger footprint supported by the Bohemian Foundation. This consolidation of full-power radio stations and low-power translators aims to streamline regional broadcasting reach under one administrative entity.

March 2026: Merger discussions were initially reported.
June 30, 2026: The asset purchase agreement was signed.
August 13, 2026: The FCC approved the station acquisition.
October 2026: Linda Carpio Shapley begins her role as news director.

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Market Landscape

This appointment follows the FCC-approved acquisition of KUNC and KJAC stations by Rocky Mountain Public Media. The consolidation mirrors industry trends of regional public media entities pooling resources to scale operations.

Local businesses should evaluate how the station's new Fort Collins presence and leadership may impact regional advertising and outreach opportunities. Monitor the upcoming transition to the Mountain Ave. facility to gauge how the new newsroom priorities affect local coverage.

The takeaway

The consolidation of regional media assets is creating new hubs for information distribution in Northern Colorado. Operators should track the new newsroom leadership's reporting focus to understand how it influences local public discourse and regional business sentiment.