MVNU’s The Lifeline named as Finalist for CMB University Station of the Year

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Mount Vernon Nazarene University is buzzing with excitement as The Lifeline (WNZR 90.9 FM), a broadcast ministry of the university, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2025 Christian Music Broadcasters University Station of the Year. This recognition is a huge achievement for The Lifeline, which has become a cornerstone of faith-based broadcasting and community engagement, providing an inspiring platform for students and listeners alike.

The Lifeline is one of five finalists in the University Station of the Year category, competing alongside powerhouse stations like 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 recognized for their outstanding programming, dedication to their communities, and impact in the world of Christian radio.

“It is always an honor to be nominated as one of the top 5 Christian university radio stations in the country,” said Joe Rinehart, MVNU Director of Broadcasting. “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.

“These are all friends and colleagues of ours who are doing great work in their communication and media programs across the country. The growth of Christian radio on both traditional and digital platforms means the future is bright as we train students to make a difference and glorify God through this vocation of broadcast and digital media production.”

Since its founding in 1986, The Lifeline has been a powerful tool for ministry and education. As a collaborative radio station, it provides hands-on experience for students interested in broadcasting and media production while offering an uplifting array of Christian music, inspiring talks, local news, weather, and community updates. In addition to its regular programming, The Lifeline is an active participant in community events like the Knox County Fair and the Mount Vernon Music & Arts Festival, where it strengthens its presence and relationship with the local area.

The Lifeline’s programming includes popular shows like “The Morning Thing” and “The Afternoon Drive,” which keep listeners engaged with positive, faith-centered content throughout the day. It also streams live on its website and through mobile apps, reaching listeners well beyond the campus and local area.

One of the station’s biggest accomplishments came in 2023, when The Lifeline won the inaugural CMB University Station of the Year Award, which praised the station for its outstanding community impact, creative programming, and engaging social media presence. This recognition is a clear indication that the station is fulfilling its mission of sharing faith and hope with audiences in dynamic and meaningful ways.

“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,” said Rinehart. “We love that CMB is invested in the future of our industry through embracing student broadcasters.”

The winner will be announced. At the 2025 CMB Awards Dinner on May 30.

To tune into The Lifeline and see what all the excitement is about, listeners can visit wnzr.fm or catch their broadcasts at 90.9 FM.