Our Scholars

Meet the radio industry talent of the future!

The College Radio Foundation is proud to announce the five inaugural Next Step Radio Scholars for 2023. The Next Step Radio (NSR) program was launched last year to help college students who aspire to have a career in radio after graduation. The annual Vinylthon event raises funds for the NSR Scholarships and is designed to give a boost for future broadcasters, and at the same time, expose our industry to young people who want to work in radio and strengthen the industry.
We are proud to introduce you to our 2023 scholars:

Janice Abel, Station Manager of WPFS 105.9 Proud Fighting Scots Radio at Monmouth College:

“Receiving this grant would not only be a boost to my confidence with my future as a broadcaster, but would also allow me to focus more closely on my studies to complete my double major with honors,” wrote Janice in her application. Her reference said that in Janice, “I see a future leader in the industry. Her drive, passion, creativity, good humor and great sense of the responsibility professionals should have would make her a great addition to any organization in the industry.”

Lucas Chen, Programming Co-Manager of UCLA Radio at the University of California, Los Angeles:

“I believe that the future of radio will be a story of adaptation, innovation, and discovery; A job in radio means that I can be a part of the movement to connect and inform people, communities, and society.” His reference said of Lucas, “I would be hard-pressed to find a more deserving candidate for this radio scholarship…His prowess in organizing his department, his new and crucial ideas for our station, and his station-leading volunteer spirit all come from the unwavering fact that Lucas is happy to help. And that rare, indispensable quality, taken in tandem with his specific accomplishments, makes him deserving of this scholarship.”

Melanie Formosa, President/Program Director & DJ of WUSB Stony Brook 90.1 FM & 107.3 FM at Stony Brook University:

“I am lucky; I get to be a leader of something I love. And I don’t want it to end. That is why my future is in the radio industry.” Melanie’s reference said of Melanie: “She is completing her studies in journalism and psychology here at Stony Brook University. Melanie has extensive work and internship experience in radio, copy editing, feature writing, television, music and film. Melanie is an exceptional candidate who plans a future career in radio.”

Dante Stanton, Sports Director of 91.1 The Globe at Goshen College:

“This scholarship would help immensely in keeping that college experience alive for me…As a residential student I can be far more involved with the on-campus radio station, and continue to grow my craft in whatever way that I can, which will better prepare me for radio beyond college.” Dante’s reference said of him, “Dante possesses a relentless work ethic. He will be well prepared for life as a professional sportscaster. He is a highly organized and detail-oriented director, who mentors our sports anchors, creates schedules for sportscasts and live game logs…Dante is the ideal example for aspiring sports directors and would be a worthy recipient of a Next Step Radio scholarship.”

Amelia Turnbull, Student Station Manager of 91.1 The Globe at Goshen College:

“Receiving this scholarship also shows me that I am making my way into the correct field. Radio has my heart and receiving this scholarship fully solidifies the fact that radio is the industry for me.” Amelia’s reference said of her, “In closing, I reiterate my support for Amelia as an excellent and appropriate choice for a Next Step Radio Scholarship. Amelia has every bit of what it takes. She’s a lifer, there’s no doubt about it.”