WLMC Radio: The Finn, Landmark College’s student-run radio station, sent fifteen students to the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) conference in New York City on February 21 at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel.
The IBS Media Awards recognize outstanding achievements in high school and college media programs. Each year, thousands of entries are submitted from IBS member schools nationwide.
Conference attendees participated in professional development sessions led by student leaders and industry professionals from organizations including Pamal Broadcasting and Audacy. Sessions focused on branding and imaging, workplace relations, and public relations. The Saturday keynote speaker, Helen Little of 106.7 Lite FM New York City, shared insights from her career and advice for emerging broadcasters.
Landmark College received six nominations, including Best Press Release, Best Student Staff Member (Non-Management) for Archives Coordinator Macy Scheldberg, Best Specialty Music Show for Charles Karwowski’s Chi-Tunes Radio, Best Student Station Manager (Radio), Best Sports Interview, and Best Streaming Station Under 10,000 Students for the fifth consecutive year. The nominations place WLMC Radio among nationally recognized college media programs.
Of the six nominations, Landmark College won two awards. WLMC Station Manager Owain Lucas received Best Student Station Manager for his work at the college radio station, while Voices TV Sports Reporter Josh Sampaio won Best Sports Interview for his interview with Head Basketball Coach and Director of the Centers for Diversity and Inclusion Marc Thurman.
Lucas, who has been involved in WLMC Radio since 2022, said the recognition reflects years of dedication and teamwork. “I’ve been with WLMC Radio since 2022, and it’s worth saying that hard work does pay off,” Lucas said. “It may take time, but stick to it, keep pushing, and good things will come.”
Sampaio said the award affirmed the effort behind his work.
“Winning this award means a great deal because I invested real time and effort into the interview,” Sampaio said. “It proves that with focus and creativity, you can produce high-level work anywhere.”
For Lucas, this marks his first IBS win after multiple nominations. For Sampaio, it was both his first nomination and first win at the national conference.
“The Intercollegiate Broadcasting conference provides exposure that challenges and stretches our students in meaningful ways,” said Professor Eric Matte, faculty advisor to WLMC Radio. “Experiences like this build confidence, independence, and professional identity well beyond the classroom."
While in New York City, the students also toured NBC’s TODAY show and SiriusXM’s broadcast facilities, observing live studio production and the coordination required to produce national broadcasts. Students witnessed professional communication, workflow, and the fast pace of live media environments.