John Hartnett

Photo Courtesy of Indiana Broadcast Pioneers

John Hartnett was a dedicated broadcaster and community leader, best known as the general manager of WSVL Radio in Shelbyville, Indiana. He started at the station in 1961 and continued there until his retirement in 1988, shaping local media for nearly three decades. In recognition of his contributions, the Indiana High School Athletic Association honored him with its Distinguished Media Award in 1993, and the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce established a civic award in his name.

Hartnett attended Canisius College before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After completing his military service, he pursued a career in broadcasting.

As part-owner and general manager of WSVL, Hartnett played a vital role in delivering news and entertainment to the community. In 1991, the station was renamed WOOO under new ownership by ARS Broadcasting of Cincinnati. The Shelbyville station is currently known as WSVX.

Beyond broadcasting, Hartnett was deeply involved in civic and charitable organizations. He served as president of both the Indiana Broadcasters Association and the Shelby Arts Council. He also spent 25 years on the board of the Shelbyville Boys Club, where he received the Bronze Keystone for outstanding service. In 1990, he was chairman the Shelby County United Fund’s annual drive.

Hartnett received numerous accolades, including Kiwanian of the Year, the Sertoma Service to Mankind Award, the Exchange Club Outstanding Service Award, and the Optimist Club Citizen of the Year.

Even after retiring from radio, he remained active in local journalism, working as a part-time feature writer and advertising sales manager for The Shelbyville News.

During the blizzard of 1978, Hartnett and two colleagues were stranded at the WSVL station for nearly three days, fielding calls and providing critical updates to the community.

Hartnett passed away in July 1991.

February 2025

Katherine Maners

Indiana Broadcast Pioneers