Thiel College student wins national intercollegiate radio broadcasting award

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Dan Wagner ’17, of Espyville, Pa., was named the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) best production director at the IBS conference for his work at Thiel College radio station WXTC. The conference was March 4-5 in New York City.

Wagner is a 2013 Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School graduate. Khari Bess ’16, of Waldorf, Md., and Mercedez Quarles ’17, of Cleveland, Ohio, were finalists for an IBS Golden Mic Award. Bess, a 2012 graduate of Maurice J. McDonough High School, was a best sports director finalist. Quarles, a 2012 graduate of Cleveland School of Science and Medicine, was a best promotion director finalist.

“Just being nominated for an award at IBS was a huge honor for me, Mercedez and Khari. This award symbolizes all the hard work that I have put in at WXTC,” Wagner said. “I did not expect to be the one to win. When I heard my name called, I felt proud to represent WXTC and Thiel College. In the future, I hope that WXTC can get many more IBS nominations and wins.”

Thiel College tied for the second-highest number of finalists behind the University of Tennessee-Martin, which had a finalist in each of the seven categories. There were over 2,000 submissions for Golden Mic Awards from colleges and universities all over the country.

 “The students who work at the station are dedicated, and they make good college radio. It helps that our Department of Communication and Student Life [division] support our efforts,” Adjunct Professor of Communication and Managing Adviser for WXTC Peg Watts, M.A., said. “College radio is unique. It should reflect the spirit and voices of students. That’s what we strive for at WXTC. And, it takes everyone doing their part to make it work. We’re excited about our progress and look forward to making WXTC even more student-centered and relevant.”

About the James Pedas Communication Center

The 20,000 square foot Pedas Center is home to the high-definition television studio, radio station, College newspaper, Department of Communication, and Office of Admission. The academic spaces in the $6.8 million building include the amphitheater-style Stamm Lecture Hall, flexible classrooms and collaborative areas, and a 24-hour computer lab with more than 20 computers. Trustee emeritus Dr. James Pedas ’50, H’89, is a movie and music producer, real estate developer, and entrepreneur. The Farrell, Pa. native provided the lead gift for the Pedas Center. Students from all majors benefit from the Pedas Communication Center as they get instruction and guidance on how to incorporate modern communication methods into their professional lives. The Pedas Center was recognized in February 2015 as Thiel College’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified building for its conservation techniques and commitment to renewable resources.