In the more than 50 years since Southern Adventist University’s classical music radio station first came on the air with the goal of friendship evangelism—a mission that remains in place and effective—there have always been those who offered a polite push for this powerful outreach tool to become more overtly Christian in its programming. During Alumni Homecoming Weekend, October 23-26, these desires will be realized as WSMC launches Oasis, an online radio station.

“Community members, donors, students, and many other groups approached us with their pledge to help make this happen,” said WSMC General Manager Scott Kornblum. “We believe listeners will be excited to hear broadcasts that feature programming from LifeTalk Radio, Amazing Facts, and Voice of Prophecy, as well as original content produced right here at Southern!”

Exactly what the Southern-specific content looks like is still being finalized, but initial plans include a weekday devotional by Clear Word author and retired School of Religion Dean Jack Blanco, along with the recording and broadcasting of some of Southern's more popular lecture classes, such as Life and Teachings of Jesus. Students and professors have also expressed interest in sharing testimonies over the air and there will be health tips and nature nuggets as well, demonstrating the university’s dedication to holistic health.

Though the station is starting off online, there are plans to grow Oasis' broadcast footprint. After its launch in October the project will enter Phase 2, which includes work on generating a digital (HD) signal. Once completed, those with an HD radio will find the faith station at 90.5 HD2. Phase 3 involves additional fundraising that will allow Southern to take that HD broadcast and repeat it on an analog FM band where traditional car and home stereos in the greater Chattanooga area will be able to receive the signal.

While Kornblum oversees the entire WSMC station, this new move to create a separate, faith-based outreach has generated opportunities for student leaders to flex their creative, managerial, and spiritual muscles. For example, WSMC classical music host Robby Raney, a senior music education major who has worked at the station since 2010, was promoted to student manager of Oasis and will play a leading role in all facets of its growth: marketing, operations, and even some fundraising. 

“I’m still learning a few of the tasks laid before me but have confidence that God's strength can be made perfect through my weakness,” Raney said. “At this point the biggest challenge will be remembering that God is in control, and asking Him to always lead and guide. It is His station, and we are doing his bidding.”