Celebrating Joel Willer: A Mentor Who Shaped Generations of Student Broadcasters
Joel Willer’s name is synonymous with mentorship, leadership, and a deep commitment to student media. After 30 years of dedication at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, including his influential work with KXUL and KEDM, Willer retired, but his legacy continues to thrive, both through his students and his monumental contributions to the world of college broadcasting.
Pioneering Student Media through Advocacy and Mentorship
As the founder of College Broadcasters, Inc. (CBI) and a pivotal figure in the creation of our by-laws, Willer has always been driven by a passion for helping students navigate the world of electronic media. His commitment to students didn’t stop at just teaching; it extended into the very heart of the organizations that support them. Willer’s mentorship and advocacy shaped not only student media in Louisiana but also national standards for student broadcasters.
Through his work with KXUL, ULM’s student radio station, Willer mentored countless students, preparing them for careers in broadcast media. Many of these students, having gained practical experience under Willer’s guidance, have gone on to secure positions in top broadcasting markets across the country. His unwavering belief in the power of student media to provide real-world experience was foundational to the success of KXUL, which Willer helped build from the ground up.
Honoring a Legacy of Service and Leadership in Student Broadcasting
In recognition of his profound impact, CBI created the “College Broadcasters, Inc. Joel Willer Award,” which honors individuals for their exceptional dedication and service to student electronic media. This award reflects Willer’s extraordinary commitment to supporting students, advocating for their rights, and providing them with the tools to succeed.
For Willer, mentorship was never just about sharing knowledge—it was about empowering students to find their own voices, to become leaders in their field, and to carry forward the values of education, integrity, and community service. His work extended far beyond the classroom, as he fought for student webcasters’ rights in Washington, D.C. and helped shape national broadcasting policies.
As we look back on Joel Willer’s incredible career, it’s clear that his legacy is one of mentorship and advocacy—a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of so many. To honor his dedication to student media, let’s continue to support and mentor the next generation of broadcasters.
Nominations for the 2025 Joel Willer Award will be open soon. Nominees are not limited to active CBI members or advisers but any staff, faculty, campus administrator, or professional who has made a substantial impact on student electronic media through teaching, advocacy, promotions, or other means. For more information, email the Awards Coordinator at awards@askcbi.org.
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