In from Indianapolis, Laura Duncan named program chief of WXRT

Laura Duncan

Laura Duncan, a rock radio programmer and personality from Indianapolis, has been hired as brand manager of WXRT 93.1-FM, Chicago's iconic adult album alternative station. She will oversee all programming for the Audacy station, starting October 4.

Duncan succeeds Greg Solk, who was promoted to vice president of programming and operations for the six-station Audacy Chicago group in July. Solk had been brand manager and program director of WXRT since 2017.

93 XRT

“Those who know Laura and her work will understand why she was a top candidate to assume the reins at XRT,” Solk said in a statement. "Her gifted sensibilities as a leader and a programmer are only matched by her kindness and generous heart. Laura will do amazing things at XRT and continue the success of this legendary and format-leading station.”

Duncan already is known to many WXRT insiders because of her close friendship with John Farneda, the station's longtime music director, who died in March.

A native of La Porte, Indiana, who grew up listening to Chicago radio, Duncan attended Indiana University. She doubles as program director and afternoon host at WTTS in Indianapolis, where she has worked since 2002. She also serves as program director and music director of WGBJ in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Earlier she worked for KUNC in Denver, KPRI in San Diego and WQRK, WWEG and WBIW in southern Indiana.

“Having listened since the 1970s, WXRT has provided a lifetime of influence, shaping me personally and professionally,” Duncan said. “It will be my honor to walk hand in hand with the poets of the airwaves, the legends who provide the magic and the memories.

"My thanks to Greg Solk and [Audacy Chicago regional president and market manager] Rachel Williamson for extending an invitation to the most iconic party in the world. I passionately accept.”

In the latest Nielsen Audio survey WXRT ranked ninth overall with a 3.3 percent share and a cumulative weekly audience of 867,900.