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WFSE receives finalist nomination for “Best Community Outreach Event”

Campus Media

Whether on your morning commute, while studying in the Baron-Forness Library, or drinking a latte at the local Bean and Bear Café, tuning in to 88.9 Fighting Scots Radio provides listeners with memorable student broadcasting to brighten their day.

Bailey Mutschler, a journalism major at PennWest Edinboro, hosts a WFSE weekly broadcast, “The Sound Wave” from 2-3 p.m. on Thursdays.

Mutschler’s involvement in radio began during the spring 2024 semester when she took a radio practicum class. Her interest in radio quickly developed, and she became involved beyond the classroom. Today, she is the station’s program director. Each week, she takes listeners on a journey of musical exploration and beyond.

“Radio broadcasting is both a training ground and a powerful communication platform,” said Dr. Ron Raymond, professor and advisor of WFSE radio. “Beyond career preparation, WFSE offers students a space for creative expression, meaningful discussions and diverse perspectives.”

Mutschler’s personality shines through her music selections—typically consisting of indie, alternative and rock. She also has unique discussions ranging from animal facts to spooky stories.

“Radio is important because in a world of AI and fake news, radio offers real connection,” she said.

Involvement in WFSE proves to be important to students, as it influences them beyond their time broadcasting from Compton Hall.

Mutschler said broadcasting gives her a purpose and a drive. “Before radio, I did not know what my goals were, but now, I know where I want to be, and radio is getting me there.”

Students are also able to collaborate and host important events for the community, such as the “The Great American Eclipse” event.

For the event, students organized a four-hour broadcast packed full of songs relative to space, eclipses and the sun and moon. Participants offered trivia, eclipse facts and jokes. Furthermore, Mutschler and another fellow student interviewed Dr. David Hurd, director of Edinboro’s Planetarium, along with NASA representatives.

The impressive event earned WFSE a top five spot for “Best Community Outreach Event” at the IBSNYC conference in New York City.

The conference served as an opportunity for students to network with other stations as well as a time to learn from peers and professionals about the radio industry. Students received knowledgeable advice from influential people such as Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Al Roker and more.

Raymond emphasized the importance of this event for students.

“It validated their hard work, boosted their confidence, and reinforced their ability to produce high-quality broadcasts,” he said. “Competing alongside top college stations nationwide was both motivating and affirming.”

Students were able to explore New York and create meaningful and lasting memories with their peers and professors. Students viewed the Museum of Modern art, Times Square, Central Park and other points of interest.

For students interested in becoming a part of WFSE Fighting Scots Radio, Mutschler has some helpful advice.

“Going on air for the first time can be scary, and it can even be scary after the 100th time,” she said. “It is important to remember that we are human, and we make mistakes, and that’s okay!”