Meet Maria Isley: Regional Network Director at MPR

Oct 22, 2026

For Maria Isley, every community has a story worth telling.

Raised in northeast Minnesota, Isley grew up watching her mother write community profiles for their local small-town newspaper. She also recalls listening to listening to The Morning Show on Classical MPR in her early years. Those childhood experiences shaped a lifelong belief that public media helps build stronger communities. That spirit now guides her work as MPR's regional manager for northeast Minnesota.

Isley originally hoped to join MPR after college, but her path took a different route. After serving in AmeriCorps and spending more than a decade working in community outreach, nonprofit leadership and the arts in Duluth, she built relationships across the region that ultimately prepared her for the role she holds today.

"The reasons I was drawn to MPR in the first place — a trusted mission, a commitment to serving communities and a belief in the value of public media — have only grown stronger," Isley said.

Building trust by showing up

As Regional Network Director at MPR, Isley’s territory stretches from Duluth and Hinckley to Ely, Grand Marais and Hibbing, serving communities with distinct histories and perspectives. Rather than assuming what people need, Isley believes meaningful partnerships begin with asking questions, listening carefully and showing up consistently.

"Strong community partnerships aren't built through emails or one-time meetings," she said. "They're built by being present, listening, following through and becoming part of the community over time."

Throughout her career, whether at the Duluth Art Institute, the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits or through civic organizations, Isley has learned that trust is earned through personal relationships built on honesty and authenticity. That’s how she works to connect communities with MPR's journalism, music and cultural events.

Inspired by the North Shore

Outside of work, Isley takes every opportunity to enjoy northeast Minnesota's natural wonder. She can often be found hiking, gardening, reading along Lake Superior or walking her dogs. Summer evenings might end at Concerts on the Pier at Glensheen, where live music meets one of Minnesota's most iconic landscapes.

Ask her what first-time visitors shouldn't miss, and the answer comes quickly: Lake Superior. But don't stop at the view. "Walk the shoreline, explore one of the state parks, wander through a small town, visit local shops and strike up a conversation with the people you meet," she said. "It's the communities along its shore — their stories, creativity and hospitality — that make the experience unforgettable."

After years of serving northeast Minnesota, Isley still believes what she learned growing up: every community has stories worth telling.