Mount Vernon Nazarene University's radio station, The Lifeline (WNZR 90.9 FM), has been named a finalist for the 2025 Christian Music Broadcasters University Station of the Year award. The recognition places The Lifeline among the top five Christian university radio stations in the country.
The Lifeline is competing against other notable stations such as Resound Radio from Cedarville University, The Lookout 91.7 from College of the Ozarks, The MEL from the University of Northwestern, and Forester Radio from Huntington University. These stations are acknowledged for their exceptional programming and community contributions within Christian radio.
Joe Rinehart, MVNU Director of Broadcasting, expressed his thoughts on the nomination: “It is always an honor to be nominated as one of the top 5 Christian university radio stations in the country,” he stated. Rinehart highlighted their commitment to kingdom impact and digital platforms, noting the positive industry feedback: "We feel WNZR can always make a strong case in the two areas CMB emphasizes: kingdom impact and embracing digital platforms. That our peers in the industry feel the same way is wonderful."
Founded in 1986, The Lifeline serves as an educational and ministerial platform, supplying hands-on broadcasting experience to students. The station offers Christian music, inspiring talks, and community updates. Furthermore, its involvement in local events like the Knox County Fair enhances its connection with the community.
The Lifeline’s popular shows include “The Morning Thing” and “The Afternoon Drive,” which are accessible both on air and through digital streaming. Their significant achievement in winning the inaugural Christian Music Broadcasters University Station of the Year Award in 2023 was a testament to their impact.
Rinehart reflected on this past accomplishment: “Winning this inaugural award in 2023 meant we presented the award last year, so to be nominated in the first two years we were eligible is humbling,” he shared, appreciating CMB's investment in student broadcasters.
The winner of the award will be announced at the CMB Awards Dinner on May 30, 2025.
Listeners can tune into The Lifeline by visiting wnzr.fm or listening to 90.9 FM.
