WNZR marks 39 years of faith-based broadcasting with community ice cream celebration

Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s student-run radio station, 90.9 WNZR, recently celebrated its 39th anniversary with a joyful community event filled with faith, fun, and fellowship. The celebration took place in the MVNU Chapel parking lot and featured a special live broadcast, “On the Road with Big Blue.”

A long line of students, alumni, and community members turned out to enjoy the festivities. Broadcasting students helped host the event and served cups of ice cream to guests as a gesture of thanks for their continued support. The ice cream was such a hit, it was completely gone before the afternoon ended.

“This is a celebration to say thank you to our listeners,” said Marcy Rinehart, WNZR Station Manager. “Thank you for the prayers. This has been God’s incredible blessing.”

WNZR began its journey in 1986, after Mount Vernon Nazarene College applied for a non-commercial FM broadcast license in 1982. The station initially launched with a 100-watt signal, but in 2010, a tower upgrade increased its broadcast power to 1,300 watts, expanding its reach across Knox, Richland, Licking and Morrow counties.

Digital ministry has also played a significant role in WNZR’s growth. In 2006, the station launched www.wnzr.fm, and in 2010, began video streaming Cougar basketball games online. In 2013-14, WNZR.TV and MVNU.TV streamed nearly 60 home athletic events, 23 chapel services, and special programs like the John Knight Theology Conference and the Boesger Business Ethics Lecture. By 2016, weekly chapel services became available at mvnu.tv, helping the MVNU community stay spiritually connected anywhere in the world.

WNZR has remained a dependable voice even in difficult times. When a massive derecho storm hit Ohio in July 2012, knocking out power for thousands, WNZR continued broadcasting using generator backup. The station provided critical updates to the community, reaffirming its role as a trusted source of hope and information.

WNZR’s outreach extends beyond the studio through Big Blue, its mobile broadcast vehicle introduced in 2009. After its debut at the Utica Ice Cream Festival Parade, Big Blue became a regular presence at community events. In 2015, the station took Big Blue to Louisville, Kentucky, to support MVNU’s admissions team at the Nazarene Youth Conference.

“We exist to reach out to our community,” said Rinehart. “It is the richest blessing.”

At the heart of WNZR is its commitment to student learning. Through hands-on experience in live radio, video streaming, event coverage, and audio production, students gain professional skills grounded in faith and service.

This model of experiential learning has earned national recognition. In 2015, WNZR won first place in the NRB student production competition. In 2023, the station was awarded the first-ever CMB (Christian Music Broadcasters) University Station of the Year, followed by another nomination in 2025.

“It’s always great to listen to the students as they grow,” shared listener Melinda Amheiser. “You hear them come in and they are hesitant, and each year they grow in their confidence.”

Each spring, WNZR holds its Lifeline fundraising campaign, which supports station operations, scholarships, and technology upgrades. From 2021 to 2025, the campaign raised over $429,000, with 2024 setting a record of $88,033.50.

As WNZR prepares for its 40th anniversary in 2026, the station remains focused on its mission to glorify Jesus Christ, serve the community, and equip students through Christ-centered media.

To learn more or tune in, visit www.wnzr.fm or call 740-392-9090.