Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) hired public radio journalist, Celeste Headlee, to host a one-hour local news program on WRAS 88.5 FM, according to a May 12 press release on GPB’s website. Headlee will begin in September.
Mandy Wilson, communications manager for GPB, said GPB wants to launch a news format program in Atlanta.
“We’re creating this show because we’re launching in Atlanta—specifically with a news format,” Wilson said. “We’ll be using a national public media programming, like NPR, but we are dedicated to providing local coverage.”
Headlee—known for guest hosting and reporting numerous NPR programs and feature stories—took to social media to confirm the news.
“Moving to Atlanta in a few weeks to launch a new daily show for @GPBnews,” she tweeted. “Very excited!!”
Wilson could not confirm whether the show was created specifically for Headlee, but she did say that the former NPR reporter is qualified for this position.
“We’re very excited about the programming and [Headlee] coming aboard,” Wilson said. “She has an excellent reputation as a journalist and has done a variety of things—both for NPR and at public radio stations in other markets, including Detroit and Arizona.”
GPB is still creating the format for Headlee’s news show, but said it will have a hyper-local focus. Wilson said more information about the show will come out as the fall debut approaches.
Headlee could not be reached by press time.
