Valley Public Radio - Live Audio

Valley Public Radio Mourns Death Of Longtime General Manager Mariam Stepanian

Jan 19, 2018

Mariam Stepanian, president and general manager of Valley Public Radio died Thursday Jan. 18 in Fresno, following complications from an illness. She was surrounded by her family and closest friends.

White Ash Broadcasting Board Chair David Parker issued the following statement on her passing:

“Mariam was an unparalleled leader who empowered Valley Public Radio staff, board and members to unequaled successes. Her friendship, commitment and strength will be missed, but her legacy will carry-on through those she has inspired to continue leading the station. Our sincere condolences go out to her family including her husband John M. Thoens, her stepson Jonathan Thoens, daughter-in law Miri Thoens and her entire Valley Public Radio family.”

Stepanian began her tenure at the station in 1980, first serving as development director. She soon became general manager and helped guide the organization into a period of financial stability, growth and community service. Under Stepanian’s leadership, Valley Public Radio became one the region’s leading providers of news and cultural arts media. With NPR and classical music programming, Valley Public Radio’s audience grew and eventually encompassed two stations, serving both the Fresno and Bakersfield markets.

In the early part of this decade, the station continued to enhance its service to the community with the addition of local news reporting, and a presence on new digital platforms. Most recently, Stepanian led the effort to raise funds for the construction of a new state-of-the-art broadcast center in Clovis. The 10,000 square foot facility opened in mid-2016, and is a lasting reminder of her vision for the station and the community.

Prior to her tenure at Valley Public Radio, Stepanian worked for the local YWCA and helped launch what is today the Marjaree Mason Center.

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A "Celebration of Life" for Mariam Stepanian was held on Saturday February 3rd, 2018 at the Pilgrim Armenian Congregational Church. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in Mariam's memory can be made to Valley Public Radio for the purpose of paying down the station's mortgage.  - 2589 Alluvial Ave - Clovis, CA 93611
 
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