Kalamazoo Times

Western Michigan University's student-run radio station, WIDR-FM, has been named the best college radio station in the nation. The station received the Abraham & Borst Award for Best Overall Station at the 2024-25 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Awards held on March 8 in New York City.

Cully Cooper, general manager of WIDR-FM, expressed excitement about the achievement: "This was a team effort from every individual who makes 89.1 WIDR-FM so unique and beautiful. I'm so excited to be a part of this wonderful team and know that being named the top college station in the nation will motivate us to just keep getting better."

WIDR also won awards for Best Celebrity or Artist Interview and Best Logo, contributing to its status as a finalist in 13 categories overall. Glen Dillon, assistant director for student media at WMU, commented on the accomplishment: "What an unprecedented accomplishment for WMU student media and an amazing testament to the quality work WMU students do at 89.1 WIDR-FM. I am incredibly proud to work with these students every day."

The success is seen as recognition of both individual contributions and collective efforts within student-run media at Western Michigan University. Cully Cooper emphasized the importance of their independent spirit: "Winning 'Station of the Year' is an acknowledgment that what we’re doing at WIDR is special. It proves that student-run media can be bold, dynamic and professional while still staying true to its independent spirit."

Cooper also noted how his experience with WIDR has been significant for his personal growth: "WIDR has been instrumental in my growth. It’s given me hands-on leadership experience, sharpened my ability to navigate the ever-changing media world and shown me the power of community-driven storytelling." He plans to continue his career as an independent filmmaker after graduation.

The achievements of WIDR reflect ongoing development and innovation within Western Michigan University's student media environment.

For further information on WMU news and events, visit WMU News online.