Making radio waves: Western's student-run station wins best in nation

Contact: Erin Flynn

March 13, 2025

A group of students from WIDR-FM holds trophies won at a competition. — Students involved in WIDR-FM celebrate with their multiple awards at the 2024-25 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Awards in New York City. Pictured top row (L-R): Adam Qureshi, program manager; Dan Hubble, production manager; Cully Cooper, general manager, Caity Ahearne, program director; Ryan Misiak, production director; bottom row: Matias Alvarez, Sam Rhoads.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—It's always a great day to be a Bronco—especially when that day includes being recognized as the best college radio station in the nation. Western Michigan University's 89.1 WIDR-FM earned top billing with the Abraham & Borst Award for Best Overall Station at the 2024-25 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Awards, announced March 8 in New York City during the 85th annual IBS International Media Conference.

A student sits at a radio board in the WIDR-FM studio. — Sam Rhoads broadcasts from the WIDR-FM studio.

"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," says Cully Cooper, 89.1 WIDR-FM general manager.

In addition to winning Best College/University Station for more than 10,000 students, WIDR also won Best Celebrity or Artist Interview for Kayla Lambert's segment with rock band Neon Trees, supported by Ryan Misiak, Adam Qureshi, Azalea Taube and Libby Yates, and Best Logo for the recent redesign by graphic design alumnus Niko Ambs, B.F.A.'23. In total, the station was a finalist for 13 awards.

"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," says Glen Dillon, assistant director for student media.

Since 2017, WMU student media has been nominated for 41 IBS awards and won 12.

"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," says Cooper. "For Western Michigan University, it highlights the creativity and drive of its students—especially in media, music and journalism."

Cully Cooper stands next to the WIDR-FM banner. — Cully Cooper shows off the new WIDR-FM logo.

Cooper has been at the helm of WIDR for the past three years and has seen the station grow in various ways.

"Our programming has expanded and our access to the students is greater than ever. DJs and staff continue to push creative boundaries. We've fostered an environment where students and local artists can thrive, and that’s reflected in the recognition we’re receiving," he says. "This award is proof that independent, noncommercial radio still has a vital place in today’s media landscape. It’s also a mandate for us to keep evolving, amplifying diverse voices and ensuring WIDR remains a space for innovation and authenticity."

WIDR's growth parallels Cooper's own professional development through his involvement in student media.

"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," says Cooper, who will be working as an independent filmmaker and videographer with Mystic 8 Productions after graduation this summer. "More than anything, it's given me a platform to fail a lot and learn how to be a better leader and a better person."

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.