How to Embrace Brand Refresh Like Morgan Murphy Media
Morgan Murphy Media has officially introduced a new company logo, marking its first major brand refresh in several decades. The update reflects both a bold, modern direction and a deep respect for the company’s 135-year legacy as a family-owned media organization.
The company says the new logo represents strength, confidence, and continuity, while honoring its long history of serving local communities through multiple forms of media.
A New Logo That Reflects Strength and Heritage
The redesigned logo is meant to balance modern design with historical meaning. Morgan Murphy Media describes the new look as bold and forward-facing, while still rooted in the company’s origins and values.
The Meaning Behind the Four Dots
The centerpiece of the logo features four vertical dots. Each dot represents a key phase in the company’s growth across four media pillars:
- Radio
- Television
- Digital
Together, these elements visually tell the story of how Morgan Murphy Media evolved from a print newspaper company into a multi-platform media organization.
A 135-Year Journey Through Media Innovation
Morgan Murphy Media was founded in 1890 by John T. Murphy as the Evening Telegram Co. in Superior, Wisconsin. The company began with a focus on print journalism, serving local readers with news and community coverage.
Expansion Into Radio and Television
In 1932, leadership passed to Morgan Murphy, John T. Murphy’s son. Under his guidance, the company expanded into radio and later became one of Wisconsin’s early leaders in commercial television. In 1956, the launch of WISC-TV in Madison marked a major milestone in the company’s broadcast history.
Early Adoption of Digital Media
Morgan Murphy Media once again showed foresight in 1995 by entering digital media at a time when the World Wide Web was still new. This move positioned the company for long-term relevance as media consumption habits continued to change.
Leadership Perspective on the Brand Refresh
Brian Burns, President and CEO of Morgan Murphy Media, said the new logo represents more than just a visual update.
A Symbol of Enduring Values
According to Burns, the logo reflects the company’s enduring spirit and commitment to innovation while staying true to its mission of serving communities through quality journalism.
He emphasized that the design honors both the past and the future, recognizing generations of work across all forms of media.
A Family-Led Legacy Continues
Morgan Murphy Media remains guided by family leadership. Brian Burns and Vice President of Talent and Team Development Kate Murphy Doty represent the latest generation overseeing the company’s growth and culture.
Contributions of the Third Generation
The third generation of leadership included Elizabeth “Liz” Murphy Burns and her brother John B. Murphy. Liz made history in 1981 as the first woman to serve on the CBS affiliates board and strongly advocated for digital media to be treated as a core business. John B. Murphy continues to serve as Chair of the Board.
Morgan Murphy Media Today
Today, Morgan Murphy Media operates television and radio stations, a print magazine, websites, mobile apps, and a digital marketing agency across a 12-state footprint. The company continues to focus on local journalism, community service, and adapting to new technologies.
Logo Rollout Across All Platforms
The new logo will be implemented across all Morgan Murphy Media properties and platforms in the coming weeks. This rollout aims to create a unified and recognizable brand identity across print, broadcast, and digital channels.
Disclaimer
Some information in this article is based on company statements, press releases, and publicly available sources. All trademarks and referenced media belong to their respective owners.