WWNO’s local news will take another big step forward on May 1 when Patrick Madden joins the station as Regional News Director. Madden comes to New Orleans Public Radio after more than twelve years as a reporter at WAMU, the NPR member station in Washington D.C.
In announcing Madden’s appointment, Paul Maassen, General Manager of WWNO and WRKF, said “This marks an exciting new chapter for WWNO and WRKF as public media news organizations. I know Patrick will do great work here, and will help take the stations to the next level.”
As Regional News Director, Madden will be responsible for leading news reporting at WWNO, as well as at our partner station, WRKF Baton Rouge. In this innovative role, he will supervise and coordinate reporters at both stations, with the aim of making best use of the stations’ combined reporting talent to enhance news coverage for both audiences.
“I am beyond thrilled by this exciting opportunity in New Orleans,” said Madden. “The importance of regional and local news has never been greater, and I look forward to joining the talented news teams at WWNO and WRKF.”
Madden’s work at WAMU as an investigative journalist covered such subjects as political corruption, abusive police tactics, environmental issues, and illegal guns. His work has led to legislative reforms and has received national recognition, including two national Edward R. Murrow awards and the 2016 Daniel Schorr Prize.
Madden also served as a political reporter covering City Hall in Washington D.C. He moderated debates for D.C.'s mayoral races and was known to fill in as host on WAMU's local talk show, The Kojo Nnamdi Show, from time to time.
Madden was selected following a nationwide search led by a committee representing WWNO, WRKF, and NPR: Paul Maassen, WWNO General Manager; Len Apcar, WRKF board member, and a professor of journalism at LSU’s Manship School; Russell Lewis, NPR Southern Bureau Chief; and Tegan Wendland, WWNO Coastal Reporter and Interim News Director.