University of Evansville Agrees to Sell WUEV-FM to WAY-FM

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, May 17, 2019 | 6:01pm CT

WAY Media

After an almost two-year review, the University of Evansville has announced the sale of its radio broadcast outlet 6.1kW WEUV-FM (91.5) to Christian radio broadcaster WAY Media (WAY-FM). WUEV will remain operational during the transition period, at which time WAY-FM will take over the frequency. The deal has been submitted to FCC for approval and is likely to take at least three months for to complete process.

"This decision did not come lightly," said Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing Shane Davidson. "Ultimately, this was a strategic decision with the long-term interest of our students as our most important consideration. We evaluate expansion and constriction of programs annually to meet the marketplace of tomorrow."

UE students will continue to have access to an array of broadcast outlets, such as ESPN3 and the Old National Bank radio network, which provide the full spectrum of experience in preparation for today's multimedia environment. Additionally, WUEV's audio production facilities will be integrated into the multimedia resources that UE currently has for students to develop skills that will prepare them for the current digital media environment. These resources include the Mel Peterson Video Production Lab in the newly renovated Hyde Hall which was dedicated last week.

"The state-of-the art video production lab is complete with green screen technology and postproduction editing capabilities that students will begin utilizing this fall," Davidson said. The decision to sell the station will save the University an estimated $1 million over the course of ten years in addition to capital expense improvements. UE will retain the assets that will be impactful for its communications curriculum. Davidson said the University looks forward to investing these savings into strategic initiatives to further enhance the student experience.

WUEV first went on the air as WEVC in 1950 when UE was known as Evansville College. Today, the station features programming centered around jazz music.

"We appreciate the years of service and loyalty that so many have invested in WUEV," said Davidson. "The traditional radio business has seen a transformation over the last decade and easily accessible apps and streaming services have changed the game. Thus, we are utilizing our resources to prepare for the current and future media environment."

Greg Guy of Patrick Communications represented the University in the sale.