JMU to Manage EMU's Public Radio Station
On February 1, 2007, WMRA-FM, James Madison University's public radio station, assumed management of WEMC-FM, the public radio voice of Eastern Mennonite University.
Both stations will broadcast from WMRA's studios on the corner of Reservoir Street and Cantrell Ave., with each station providing strong, distinctive programming to the greater Shenandoah Valley.
While the daily operations and financial needs of WEMC will be handled by WMRA management, EMU will retain the operating license for the station.
"This is a new venture for both JMU and EMU," said EMU President Loren Swartzendruber. "Our two universities – different in many ways – will be cooperating on areas of common ground in a unique way, with the objective of retaining the distinct values that characterize WEMC," he added.
"We are pleased this arrangement will continue to permit the local management of WEMC," said Dr. Linwood Rose, president of James Madison University. "It is always beneficial when organizations can work together to add value to the community. This collaboration ensures that WEMC and WMRA are positioned to continue serving the listening community with on-air excellence. JMU is pleased to be a part of that commitment."
"WMRA will bring experience and expertise in managing public radio to this new partnership," said WMRA general manager Tom DuVal. "Programming on WEMC will be determined collaboratively by EMU and WMRA."
To offer diverse options for listeners, the Monday through Friday daytime programming on WEMC will include news and information from the British Broadcasting Corporation, National Public Radio and other sources. Classical music will continue to be heard during the day, as well as evenings and overnight, on WMRA, 90.7 FM. The target date for programming changes is Feb. 19.
EMU and WMRA will conduct ongoing review of programming to identify opportunities in the future for improved service to the community, DuVal noted, adding that "any programming changes will only be made in consultation with EMU, and listeners will be invited to give input into that decision-making process."
Listener questions can be directed to Tom Duval at duvalte@jmu.edu.
WEMC operates at 91.7 on the FM dial 24 hours a day and is Virginia's oldest public radio station. Initial gifts to begin the station came from the EMU graduating class of 1954.
Questions, additional comments: Dr. Loren Swartzendruber, EMU President, 432-4100; Don Egle, JMU spokesperson, 568-5322
