Press Release: Veteran Broadcaster Donna Kavanagh Joins Hoosier Enquirer After Departing WNIT Public Television

Indianapolis, IN – January 17, 2026 – Hoosier Enquirer is proud to welcome veteran broadcaster and longtime media personality Donna Kavanagh to our independent news network. Kavanagh, a Michigan City native with a remarkable career in television, radio, theater, and public media, brings her expertise and passion for community storytelling to our team following her tenure at WNIT Public Television.

Best known as the host of the long-running program What Gives? on WNIT, the PBS affiliate serving Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan, Kavanagh delivered engaging interviews, local perspectives, and meaningful discussions to viewers since the show's debut in 2009. Her work at WNIT exemplified thoughtful, audience-focused content in the public broadcasting space, highlighting community stories, issues, and people across the Michiana region.Kavanagh's diverse background includes hosting Kavanagh Live on NPR’s Radio Harbor Country, appearances in classic television series such as Fantasy Island and The Love Boat, and roles in films like Airport '75 and Every Which Way But Loose. In the 1970s, she traveled to Poland to teach and perform American arts at the University of Poznan during a complex geopolitical period.

Her contributions across theater, film, radio, television, and beyond earned her inductions into the Who’s Who of American Female Artists and Who’s Who of Americans in 2021.Her transition to Hoosier Enquirer comes as public broadcasting faces ongoing funding challenges, including federal and state cuts that have strained operations at many PBS affiliates like WNIT. This move allows Kavanagh to continue her commitment to authentic, unfiltered storytelling in an independent media environment that prioritizes transparency and Hoosier voices without traditional institutional limitations.

In her new role, Kavanagh will contribute to reporting, hosting, special features, and streaming initiatives, shining a light on issues and stories that matter to everyday people throughout Indiana. She will continue her work in much the same spirit as she did at WNIT—focusing on thoughtful interviews, community perspectives, and meaningful discussions that connect directly with audiences and amplify the voices of Hoosiers across the state.The entire Hoosier Enquirer team was genuinely excited when the news was shared, and all hands are on deck for production as we integrate Donna’s talents into our growing lineup of content.

Statement from Gabriel Whitley, Director of Digital Streaming and Radio, Hoosier Enquirer: “I’m genuinely excited to welcome Donna Kavanagh to the Hoosier Enquirer family. Donna’s incredible track record—from her engaging work hosting What Gives? on WNIT to her broader contributions in radio, theater, and community media—brings a level of professionalism and heart that aligns perfectly with our mission here. As we continue to expand our digital streaming and radio platforms, Donna’s experience in thoughtful, audience-centered storytelling will be invaluable. She’ll help us deliver the same kind of meaningful interviews, local insights, and unfiltered discussions that Hoosiers have come to expect, but now in an independent environment free from the constraints that have challenged public broadcasting. Her transition is a win for our team and for viewers across Indiana who value authentic voices and real community coverage. We’re thrilled to have her on board and look forward to the impact she’ll make on our streaming initiatives, special features, and overall content.”

Gabriel Whitley

Director of Digital Streaming and Radio Hoosier Enquirer

“We’re thrilled to have Donna join Hoosier Enquirer,” said the Hoosier Enquirer team. “Her deep Indiana roots, dynamic on-air presence, and dedication to real community journalism perfectly complement our mission. As the state’s fastest-growing independent news network, we focus on honest reporting and open dialogue. Donna’s addition strengthens our ability to expand coverage, produce compelling multimedia content, and connect with more Hoosiers across the state. ”Hoosier Enquirer remains steadfast in its dedication to independent journalism that challenges suppression, promotes accountability, and serves the Hoosier State with speed and integrity. This exciting addition marks another step forward in our growth as a trusted voice for Indiana.

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Hoosier Enquirer is an independent media outlet headquartered in Indianapolis, delivering news across Indiana with a focus on transparency, accountability, and the perspectives of everyday Hoosiers. As the state’s youngest and fastest-growing news network, it uncovers stories that deserve attention.