WGRE a well-deserved No. 2 college station

To the Editor:

In the Aug. 5 issue of the Banner Graphic, Editor Eric Bernsee analyzed the results of the Princeton Review College Survey, claiming its findings were unrealistic. While it may be hard to believe that a school of 2,400 students ranks highly for partying and alcohol consumption, the history and accomplishments of DePauw's radio station, 91.5 WGRE, serve as substantial evidence for its ranking as the No. 2 college radio station in America.

WGRE boasts a 24-hour schedule staffed by 200 student DJs, making it the largest student organization at DePauw. The station produces reputable sports broadcasts, timely news coverage and is an industry leader in the promotion of up-and-coming alternative music.

In the past year alone, WGRE has been recognized for awards from the Indiana Broadcasters Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Indiana Associated Press -- not to mention it was named the "Coolest College Radio Station" by Playboy Magazine in the spring. In many of these contests, WGRE participants compete against commercial broadcasters.

These recognitions do not even begin to mention our station's prestigious alumni and history, dating back to 1949 when WGRE became America's first 10-watt educational radio station. Last fall, our station's founder, Elizabeth Turnell, was inducted into the Indiana Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Additionally, the station has been represented in the top 10 of the Princeton Review rankings for 14 consecutive years. These results represent a significant commitment by staffers and directors alike, who dedicate their time and efforts to maintain a top quality, nationally regarded product.

Though WGRE is located on DePauw's campus and is operated by its students, we are very much a part of the Greencastle and Putnam County communities. Representatives of our news department attend City Council, County Commissioner and school board meetings and broadcast stories detailing their work. We regularly interview community leaders on our news talk show, "DPView," which will air on Thursdays from 5-6 p.m. in the fall. WGRE Sports broadcasts a "Putnam County Game of the Week" on Friday nights immediately following "Putnam County Prime Time," a show dedicated to local sports that starts at 6 p.m.

In addition to local news and sports coverage, WGRE participates in community efforts by making event announcements, DJ-ing, and providing tours of our facility to youth groups.

At WGRE, we are dedicated to producing quality college radio that our listeners enjoy and it's to the support of local businesses, community leaders and our loyal listeners that we owe our continued success. Thanks to everyone who made our No. 2 ranking possible!

WGRE will return to the air Friday, Aug.19 at 1 p.m.

Ashlyn Archer

91.5 WGRE Station Manager