Monday, Sept. 30 marked the 50th anniversary of the on-air debut of VMFM 91.7. One of the yearly events the station participates in is College Radio Day. The 14th annual College Radio Day is being celebrated this Friday.

Founded in 2010 by Dr. Rob Quicke, the day was intended to grow awareness for college radio stations. The purpose was for non-traditional listeners to tune in and listen to and support college radio stations.

Station Manager Kyle Driscoll gives his opinion on College Radio Day and what it means for the department.

“I think the significance of College Radio Day is sort of building a unity across, but it’s essentially like a dying medium,” Driscoll mentioned. “College radio stations are disappearing, so it’s the kind of day where all across the world we all come together to celebrate the medium, try to keep it going.”

The student-run college radio station has seen numerous changes, including its channel.

Originally on 91.5 FM, VMFM moved to 91.7 in 2016, when the station improved its frequency from 100 watts to 2,000. The station reaches all of Northeast Pennsylvania, streaming commercial-free alternative music spanning across five decades.

Faculty advisor Ernie Mengoni spoke about the growth of the radio station.

“Since its origin, WVMW has grown significantly,” said Mengoni. “In its early days, the programming was basically dramatic plays for radio, cultural events, specifically concerts that were performed. It wasn’t necessarily alternative music back then, but it evolved a few years after VMFM originally signed on the air to include alternative music, which is really why college radio began. To give airplay to bands and artists that didn’t normally have airplay.”

Despite the growth VMFM has seen in its 50 years, Mengoni hopes for the continued success of the radio station.

“Well, hopefully we’ll be around for another 50 years,” Mengoni said. “I would hope that the station continues with its alternative format long after I’m gone. But I also would like to see more diverse programming shifts. Maybe bring back some classical music, classic rock and things of that nature.”

For more information about VMFM 91.7, check out its website.

Contact the writer: [email protected]