Publication Date

1966

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Crawford, Paul K.

Degree Name

M.A. (Master of Arts)

Legacy Department

Department of Speech

LCSH

Educational radio stations--Illinois--Elmhurst

Abstract

It is the purpose of this study to examine the history of WRSE-FM, the educational radio station of Elmhurst College, Elmhurst, Illinois, from 1947 to 1965. It is hoped that this study will be a guide to other persons that are involved in establishing or maintaining a radio station of this type. Justification for this study is found in the station's unusual philosophy. The philosophy is that the station is "student owned and operated.” According to a survey conducted by WRSE in 1963, no other college or university radio station is operated under that same philosophy. This historical study includes many sources. The most important of these being WRSE's own historical file. This file consists of documents and correspondence that have played a part in the station's growth. Other sources used are the Elm Bark, the Elmhurst College newspaper, the College's historical file, the College yearbook and the Elmhurst Press, a community news­paper. The College's historical file also proved to be a useful source. Interviews with various community and college personnel were also helpful in the study. The last source for the study is the writer's four years at Elmhurst College. During those four years he participated in the operation of WRSE. The study is organized chronologically. It starts with the beginnings of WRSE in 1947 and follows its growth and development to 1965. When an organization fulfills its purpose or function, it is considered a success. This study concludes that WRSE-FM has fulfilled and is fulfilling its purpose. It, therefore, is a success. Through their participation in the station, the students of Elmhurst College are taught not only the workings of a radio station, but because of its unusual philosophy, they are taught to accent and use responsibility in an adult and responsible way. Elmhurst College has benefitted from the radio station by the important part it has played in public relations. WRSE-FM has played an important part in building the College's reputation within the surrounding communities.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references (leaf [36])

Extent

vii, 63 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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