Elwin L. Basquin 1931-2021 
WTVP President / General Manager 1971-1996

Our deepest condolences to the family of Elwin L. Basquin, who passed away July 1, 2021. One of the visionary founders of WTVP and its first employee, Elwin worked tirelessly for 25 years to bring the promise of public television to Central Illinois. Starting with a big idea and a tiny budget, he was instrumental in building WTVP into the thriving institution we see today.

During his tenure as the station’s first president and general manager, Elwin led his team through dramatic changes in technology, shifting audience demographics, economic downturns, expanding program variety and new media competition. A true friend of and believer in the people of Central Illinois, Elwin collaborated with the business community, educators, volunteers and viewers on countless events and initiatives. His true gift was his ability to bring people together for a common goal — WTVP.

All of our lives are richer because of Elwin’s passion for public television. His wisdom, guidance and experience will be missed, but his legacy continues on WTVP and in the lives of those he touched through public television.