From its heart on campus to the national spotlight, Millikin University’s WJMU is making student creativity shine with award-winning excellence.
The student-operated radio station was named a national first-place winner at the 2026 IBS (Intercollegiate Broadcasting System) College Media Awards in New York City, beating out some of the best student broadcasters from around the country.
WJMU is the student-run radio station of Millikin University, providing a diverse range of programming and serving as a training ground for students pursuing careers in multimedia communications, broadcasting, and digital storytelling.
On Friday, February 20, and Saturday, February 21, the WJMU team from Millikin University had the tremendous privilege of attending the IBS College Awards in New York City.
Presented annually by the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System, the IBS College Awards recognize excellence in student-run radio, television, and digital media programs across the country. The ceremony, held at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, celebrates outstanding creativity and innovation in dozens of competitive categories. Beyond the awards, the conference offers professional development and networking opportunities for the next generation of media professionals.
This year, WJMU earned nominations in four prestigious categories:
Best Celebrity or Artist Interview: Interview with Nick Offerman — Helena Hashimoto (‘25) and AJ Hodge (‘27) (National Winner)
Best Show Promo: Jenneration Y Experience promo — Jenn Gidney (‘28)
Best Public Service Announcement: “Red Cross Blood Donation PSA” — Alayna Schultz (‘27), Abby Stevens (‘28), and Lindsey Ohl (‘27)
Best Broadcast Station ID: Liv & Medi Show Legal ID — Olivia Hawley (‘28) and Medi Lembelembe (‘28)
WJMU walked away with four nominations and a national win for Best Celebrity or Artist Interview, awarded to junior AJ Hodge and alum Helena Hashimoto for their feature with actor Nick Offerman.
Station Advisor Sam Meister reflected on the achievement.
“I don’t put too much expectation on things that are outside of our control, like awards and nominations. I’m always proud of the work that our WJMU student staffers put together, and the recognition from the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System is a nice bonus and a feather in our cap,” he said.
Although Meister is proud of the achievement, he remains focused on the work ahead.
“Our priorities remain providing the best broadcast content—information and entertainment—that a student-run media outlet can provide to Millikin,” he said. “As always, this means functioning as both a learning lab for our students and as a student organization providing opportunities to the campus. After the IBS conference, the focus of our work will begin to shift more towards fundraising for the coming year.”
WJMU continues to serve as a hub for creative expression at Millikin University, offering students opportunities to refine their skills in broadcasting, storytelling, and digital production while competing alongside top student media programs nationwide.
