Luther College's KWLC Celebrates 100 Years of Broadcasting

Without local news, all we have are rumors. Keep facts alive — give now. DECORAH — KWLC 1240 AM, Luther College's student-run radio station, will celebrate 100 years of broadcasting with an anniversary block party from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 24, at Bentdahl Commons. One of the oldest operating radio stations in Iowa, KWLC serves as a student platform for broadcasting and media experience. "It is impressive that Luther College has had a radio presence for 100 years in northeast Iowa," said Jay Raabe, administrative advisor for KWLC. "Owning an FCC radio license is a significant responsibility, and I am continually impressed by the professionalism and positivity of the current student team." KWLC's first broadcast aired Dec. 18, 1926, when Luther College President Oscar L. Olson read Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The station initially broadcast only a few times per week before expanding to daily programming in the 1930s. It has remained a campus fixture ever since. In 2025, KWLC was restructured as a student organization, giving students full responsibility for programming, operations and station management. The station offers opportunities for students to host shows, report on campus life and develop broadcasting skills. Many alumni have gone on to careers in media and radio, including roles at Minnesota Public Radio. Notable alumni include Mike Danforth '95, executive producer of "Wait Wait… Don't Tell Me!" on National Public Radio, and Mike Grimm '93, play-by-play announcer for the University of Minnesota men's basketball and football teams. KWLC is currently led by student officers including station manager Lindsey Moseley '26, communications and outreach coordinator Jeanette Pelletier '26, social media manager David Hinderaker '27 and treasurer Alex Burdzy '28. "I have really enjoyed being a part of KWLC," Pelletier said. "I have especially enjoyed working with my peers and faculty to plan the 100-year anniversary block party. KWLC has always had a tradition of student expression." The anniversary celebration will feature live music from Stonewalker and Grandma's Banjo, ice cream from Sugar Bowl and lawn games. "This event is a celebration of the past, but also an opportunity to recruit the next crew," Raabe said. "Please bring a blanket and your friends for a fun evening." KWLC is part of Luther College, which describes itself as a liberal arts college focused on active learning and community engagement. Stay connected and informed! Join the free newsletter for curated news, trending topics, and insider perspectives you won't find anywhere else.