Ann Arbor Times

For a third year running, Eastern Michigan University's public radio station, 89.1 WEMU, has been recognized as the Station of the Year in the Public Radio Group 1 category by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters. The recognition was announced during the Broadcast Excellence Awards Gala held at the Motor City Casino Hotel in Detroit on April 5.

The station has a history of success, having previously won this honor in 2015, 2017, 2022, and 2023. According to Walter Kraft, Eastern Michigan University's vice president for communications, the award reflects the "exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and passion of the WEMU team." Kraft emphasized that despite not having the largest staff or most advanced studios, the station's commitment to excellence and community service stands out.

Additionally, WEMU earned twelve other Broadcast Excellence Awards. Some highlights include wins in categories such as Marketing Materials & Promos for 'Jazz Appreciation Month - Why Jazz?', Mini-Documentary or Series for 'Issues of the Environment,' and Special Interest & Cultural Programming for 'creative:impact.' The station was also recognized for its community involvement through 'Black History Moments.'

WEMU's general manager, Molly Motherwell, expressed that the value of their work is affirmed through peer evaluation, noting that they do not produce content solely for accolades but that the recognition confirms the quality of their programming. Entries for the 2024 awards were assessed by the Colorado Association of Broadcasters.

For more information on the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Broadcast Excellence Awards, interested parties can visit their website. WEMU continues to provide a mix of local news, jazz, blues, and NPR content, broadcasting to eight counties and streaming online.

Eastern Michigan University, established in 1849, serves a diverse student body across various disciplines. More information on the university can be found on its website and through EMU Today, the university's news platform.