Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University's public radio station, WEMU 89.1, recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. General Manager Molly Motherwell appeared on EMU Today TV to discuss the station's history and contributions to the community.

Motherwell highlighted WEMU's origins, stating, "When WEMU signed on as a 10 watt in-dorm service to broadcast EMU sports on Dec. 8, 1965, no one had any idea that 60 years later, the station would be a community mainstay with thousands of listeners and hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations."

Over time, WEMU has grown into a prominent professional station with a continuous broadcast schedule featuring National Public Radio news, local news, and jazz and blues music. The station has earned recognition for its quality programming, winning the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Station of the Year award four times.

Motherwell attributed WEMU's success to "visionary leadership and a passionate team of broadcasters." The station now reaches 50,000 weekly listeners and collaborates with major arts organizations across Southeast Michigan.

The episode featuring Motherwell is part of EMU Today TV's eighth season. Produced by Eastern Michigan University's Division of Communications, the program showcases university programs and events. Hosted by EMU alum Mark S. Lee, who also lectures in marketing at Eastern Michigan University, the show can be viewed on the University's YouTube channel.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is one of Michigan's oldest public universities. It serves nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines through its multiple colleges.