by Cara Ramer, Student Public Relations Writer
Resound Radio, a student-run radio station at Cedarville University, has earned its third consecutive nomination for the Christian Music Broadcasters’ University Station of the Year Award. Christian Music Broadcasters annually honors radio stations and media professionals in multiple categories. Its university category, launched in 2023, recognizes innovation, leadership and real-world impact in student-operated radio stations across the country. Winners will be announced May 29 at the CMB Awards.
Student-run Cedarville radio station gives students hands-on broadcasting experience
Resound Radio operates as a student-led Christian radio ministry, giving students on-hands experience for content creation, programming, audience engagement and daily station operations. The station is designed to mirror professional broadcasting expectations while giving students hands-on experience in Christian media.
“We run Resound as if it’s a professional radio station because our mission is twofold: to prepare students for careers in broadcasting and to serve our community with excellence,” said Craig Vinson, instructor of communication and faculty advisor for Resound Radio. “This nomination from CMB is especially meaningful because it reflects recognition from leaders within the Christian media industry. It affirms that our students’ work meets national standards and is making a measurable impact.”
Cedarville alumni hold leadership roles across Christian radio networks
That influence can also be seen in the careers of Cedarville alumni working across Christian radio. Three alumni now serve in senior leadership at K-LOVE and Air1 Media Networks — Jim Houser, chief radio officer; Mandy Young, vice president of radio; and Steve Shore, music platform program manager. In Ohio, alumnus Bill Montgomery serves as president and CEO of The River Radio, where another Cedarville graduate, Scott Thomson, serves as chief financial officer and human resources director. Alumni like Joy Summers, host of the Midday Show on WAY FM, and Paula Farris of the Paula Farris Show speak to millions weekly.
Resound Radio combines ministry, student media and career preparation
Beyond entertainment, student radio at Cedarville emphasizes career preparation, strategic communication skills and ministry impact.
“There’s a misconception that student radio is just about playing music or casual conversation,” said Vinson. “At Cedarville, we intentionally operate at a professional level, equipping students with the skills and discipline required for long-term success in broadcasting and digital media careers.”
Students involved in Resound Radio said the experience is both meaningful and transformative.
“Resound is special because we’re students making content for students,” said Ally Kinner, a student broadcaster from Grove City, Ohio. “It’s cool to be part of something bigger than ourselves while serving people our own age. A lot of people don’t immediately think of media as a ministry opportunity, so being able to serve and then be recognized on a bigger scale is really meaningful. We don’t do it to be seen, but it’s encouraging to know the impact is noticed.”
For the students behind Resound Radio, the nomination reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation and ministry through media.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.
