Abby’s path to MVNU came after moving from Augusta, Georgia to Ohio during high school. After visiting campus and connecting with faculty, she knew MVNU was the right fit—moving into her dorm the same day her family moved into their Ohio home.
She arrived undeclared but found her direction, becoming a double major in Communications and Digital Media while also adding English. Along the way, she became deeply involved with WNZR—working afternoon drive, summer staff, marketing photography, and serving as Station Operations Assistant. She also played a key role with the Lakeholm Viewer as editor, helping shape its creative direction.
Abby says one of her biggest takeaways has been learning how to build one-on-one connections and step into leadership, even as someone who considers herself naturally shy. Through her work, she’s grown in confidence and learned to trust both her ideas and her team.
Some of her favorite memories include Lifeline and the strong support from the community, along with unique classroom experiences like an honors “Zombies” course that brought creativity to life in a fun way.
As graduation approaches, Abby says it’s bittersweet. She was recently named Outstanding Staff Member of the Lakeholm Viewer and is grateful for the impact MVNU has had on her life. After graduation, she plans to stay in Mount Vernon and work in ministry with Starting Point Pregnancy and Family Resource Center.
She asks for prayer as she steps into this next season—seeking clarity and a continued opportunity to honor God in all she does.
Isaiah is from Butler, Ohio, and says MVNU had always been on his radar. His dad is a graduate, and growing up, Isaiah spent time on campus attending different events. When he heard about the communications program, it felt like a natural fit—even though he admits he wasn’t exactly sure what he wanted to do at first.
That started to change during his freshman year. After taking Intro to Radio, Isaiah was on the air the very next semester. He says if he could go back and do it all over again, he would in a heartbeat.
During his time with WNZR, Isaiah stayed busy. He worked as an on-air DJ, helped with the video crew, and was involved with Lifeline. Along the way, he learned how to communicate, work as a team, and help run events and fundraisers.
One of his favorite memories is Lifeline itself. Isaiah says the support from upperclassmen and seniors made a big difference, helping calm nerves and build confidence as he stepped into that experience.
Another standout moment goes back to his freshman year during Homecoming weekend. Isaiah helped with eight different events and had the chance to connect with alumni—something he says helped him feel even more a part of the MVNU community.
Looking ahead, Isaiah says he would love to pursue something in journalism or sports photography. He enjoys writing and telling stories, and as he takes the next step, he simply asks for prayer and clarity about what’s ahead.
Naomi is from Circleville, Ohio, and says MVNU had been on her radar for a long time. Growing up, she heard about the university often through her Nazarene church, which made the decision to come here feel like a natural one.
She’s a Graphic Design major with a minor in Communications—something that fits her well. Naomi says she’s always been creative and enjoyed making things, even contributing graphics to her high school yearbook. So pursuing graphic design in college just made sense.
That creativity carried over into her work at WNZR. Naomi applied to be the station’s graphic designer last year and has been part of the team ever since. Along with her design work, she’s also been on-air and involved with the video team—helping with graphics, cameras, and production as needed.
When it comes to sports, Naomi says football is her favorite overall, but she especially enjoys being part of WNZR’s basketball streams.
Looking back, one of her favorite memories is simple—being at block party, enjoying free food, and spending time with friends.
As graduation approaches, Naomi says her next steps include staying on campus through May, attending CMB Momentum, and continuing the job search over the summer. She’s also considering a possible internship in Florida.
As she looks ahead, Naomi asks for prayers—for clarity, direction, and trust in what God has next, both for her and for her family back home.
Traven grew up right here in Mount Vernon and says coming to MVNU was largely about one thing: getting the chance to be on WNZR, a station he’d been listening to for nearly a decade.
Now a Communications and Digital Media major, he’s spent the past three years doing just that. You’ve likely heard him on-air as a DJ, or behind the scenes helping with events, games, and summer shifts. For the past two years, he’s also served as Music Director—something he didn’t originally expect.
Traven thought he might go into production, but after a conversation, Marcy saw leadership potential and tapped him for the Music Director role. It’s an experience he says helped him better understand how a radio station operates day-to-day.
Looking back, Traven says it’s hard to believe how fast the time has gone. One of his favorite memories is freshman year—meeting people in the department and finally getting to live out his childhood dream of being a DJ. He even remembers calling into the radio as an 8-year-old and being thrilled just to be part of it.
There are also some unforgettable moments along the way—like the 2024 Dog Parade, when a storm rolled in right before things started. Traven laughs about scrambling to dump water out of the tent and getting soaked, but still having a great time.
As Music Director, he’s enjoyed working with artists like TobyMac and for KING & COUNTRY, while also helping introduce new music to listeners.
Next up, Traven is looking toward a career in video editing—something he’s loved even longer than radio. As he starts that job search, he’s asking for prayers and direction for what’s ahead.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart sits down with Dr. Carson Castleman for the latest MVNU Update, and as the semester winds down, there’s a mix of celebration, momentum, and a look ahead.
Dr. Castleman shares a personal highlight to start—the arrival of his new granddaughter, Nora Gene—while also looking forward to wrapping up the spring semester and a well-earned break for students and staff.
Before that, MVNU is preparing for a full graduation weekend on May 8th and 9th, including a ribbon cutting, baccalaureate, the President’s Dessert Reception, and commencement. Reverend Nathan Ward will speak at baccalaureate, and Dr. Randle Davie will deliver the commencement address. The weekend will also include special recognitions like honorary doctorates and the Service Above Self award.
Dr. Castleman says the university continues to see encouraging growth, with strong enrollment trends and a welcoming campus environment. Academically, MVNU is exploring new graduate programs through CAPS, including a Doctor of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Education, while the College of Arts and Sciences looks ahead to a possible Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology.
Over the summer, several campus projects are planned—from apartment air conditioning upgrades to continued chapel renovations and general maintenance—alongside camps and district events.
Looking ahead, MVNU is also preparing for future enrollment cycles and an upcoming 2028 accreditation review, with Dr. Castleman noting continued progress in fulfilling the university’s mission.
He closes with a simple message: “Well done” to students, encouragement for faculty and staff to rest, and a reminder to graduates from Habakkuk 1:5 to stay open to what God is doing next.
WNZR is excited to welcome Ryan Meholick to the radio team!
Originally from Huber Heights, Ohio—a small town just north of Dayton—Ryan is a freshman at Mount Vernon Nazarene University majoring in Communications and Digital Media.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart!
He chose MVNU with a clear purpose: to serve God through video and radio, and that passion led him straight to WNZR.
Ryan is already making an impact on-air, hosting Tuesday and Thursday night shifts from 8–9 p.m. In addition to his role as a DJ, he is actively involved in the PB&J Club, where he helps serve local children by providing food and sharing the Good News—an outreach that reflects his heart for ministry.
Outside the studio, Ryan enjoys making memories with friends and embracing campus life. One of his favorite moments so far has been a massive snowball fight during the first snowfall of the semester. When he’s not on the air, you might find him riding his scooter around campus or heading out for fun at places like Kings Island.
Ryan’s favorites include listening to MercyMe and enjoying homemade mac and cheese, but what matters most to him is spending time with his dad, whom he considers his favorite person in the world.
Be sure to tune in to WNZR on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 8–9 p.m. to hear Ryan in action!
During the April Spotlight on Mount Vernon, WNZR’s Eric Brown sat down with Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr for a wide-ranging update—and it’s clear the city is moving full speed ahead into a busy spring season.
One of the biggest updates comes from the aftermath of the March 13th storms. Mayor Starr says cleanup is now officially complete, after crews worked through every street in the city. What was expected to take about a week stretched into three and a half weeks, but the effort paid off. Starr credited teams from Public Works, Parks, and other departments for tackling the large amount of debris and getting things back in order. He also noted repairs at the Curtis family gravesite in Mount Vernon Cemetery and reminded residents to take part in spring cleanup efforts as the city prepares for Memorial Day.
Looking ahead, attention is turning to long-discussed demolition projects north of Public Square. Starr says bids are due May 7th for the removal of several condemned buildings. While those structures will soon come down, pieces of history are being preserved. Materials from the Curtis Building have been saved, and detailed 3D scans were completed to document the structure before demolition begins.
Environmental work is also a major focus. Starr discussed ongoing brownfield efforts—projects aimed at cleaning up former industrial sites before redevelopment. The city has applied for grant funding to address areas along South Sandusky Street and Long Phillips Drive, where past use left contamination behind. If approved, those funds would help prepare the land for future development while protecting the surrounding environment.
Safety improvements around schools are also underway. Through the Safe Routes to School program, work is happening near Saint Vincent de Paul School, including resurfacing, curb upgrades, and new safety features like bump-outs and flashing beacons. Additional projects are planned along Martinsburg Road, including bridge repairs, resurfacing, and future sidewalk installation—all part of a broader push to improve infrastructure in school zones.
And speaking of infrastructure, road construction season is officially in full swing. Crews are addressing erosion issues, repairing and resurfacing streets, and upgrading traffic signals along Coshocton Avenue with new radar technology. Work is also happening on brick streets, Blackberry Alley, and in neighborhoods across the city. Starr acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasized that these improvements are designed to benefit the entire community long-term.
There’s also plenty happening in Mount Vernon’s parks and public spaces. New swings have been installed at Riverside Park, and the splash pad will reopen from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Hiawatha Water Park is set to open June 2nd. Maintenance work—including painting and equipment repairs—is ongoing, while Public Square is being prepared with fountain and lighting updates. Starr also shared an ambitious goal of planting more than 400 trees this year and encouraged residents to attend an upcoming neighborhood meeting tied to a grant application for additional street and infrastructure improvements.
At the city government level, Starr says City Council has officially begun meeting in the new municipal center. Recent actions include approving road salt purchases, managing impounded vehicle disposal, and continuing traffic and infrastructure studies. Updates are also moving forward on the North Sandusky intersection project, South Sandusky improvements, and new curbside recycling requirements.
Public safety remains a priority as well. Starr says police and fire departments are staying busy, especially with warmer weather bringing increased activity. Training continues, including rescue simulations for the fire department. The city has also selected a new assistant fire chief, and a new medic unit is expected soon—with a traditional push-in ceremony planned to mark its arrival.
Beyond city operations, there are plenty of opportunities for community connection. Starr highlighted events like the Songwriters Circle at the Woodward Opera House and reflected on the recent Rwanda remembrance event hosted in partnership with MVNU, calling it both powerful and humbling. He also pointed to Celebrate Trails Day and National Bike to Work Day as ways residents can get involved and stay active.
Coming up soon, the citywide yard sale trail will take place May 2nd and 3rd, with free permits available for participants. City Cleanup Day is scheduled for May 9th at Ariel Foundation Park. Starr also invited residents to attend the Washington Forum on April 28th, focused on land and conservation, in partnership with MVNU and Kenyon College.
As the conversation wrapped up, Starr reflected on the often unseen work of public service. While much of it happens behind the scenes, he says it plays a critical role in maintaining and improving the community. He asked residents to keep city leaders in prayer for wisdom and stewardship and encouraged everyone to stay connected through the city’s website, social media, and direct communication with city offices.
Click HERE for the City of Mount Vernon’s website!
A sophomore at MVNU majoring in Communications and Digital Media, Odessa is stepping into the world of radio with enthusiasm and a growing passion for connecting with listeners.
Originally from Bucyrus, Ohio, Odessa’s decision to attend MVNU felt like a natural fit. Having grown up in the Nazarene church, coming to a university within her district just made sense. Since arriving on campus, that sense of belonging has only deepened—especially through the friendships she’s formed while living in the residence halls. One of her favorite memories from this past year has simply been the joy of being surrounded by close friends and doing everyday life together.
Odessa first got involved in radio as part of her major, but it quickly became something more than just a class requirement. She’s found it to be a fun and meaningful way to express herself, build skills, and engage with the WNZR audience. That excitement carries into other areas of her campus life as well. She serves on the student class council and has already been selected as next year’s Junior Class President, where she’ll help plan events and create memorable experiences for her classmates.
When she’s not in the studio or focused on school, Odessa enjoys spending time with friends, taking trips off campus, and making the most of her weekends. She also loves basketball—especially the WNBA—and enjoys watching players like Caitlin Clark. While she admits she’s not the most athletic herself, her enthusiasm for the game is undeniable.
Music is another big part of Odessa’s life. She’s a fan of TobyMac, with Heaven On My Mind ranking as one of her favorite songs. And when it comes to comfort food, you can’t go wrong with her top choice: mac and cheese.
There are also a few fun facts that make Odessa stand out. Her name is inspired by Odysseus from The Odyssey, and she holds a close relationship with her mom, who she calls her built-in best friend. She also has a younger brother who keeps life interesting.
As Odessa continues to grow in her time at MVNU and WNZR, she’s already making an impact both on and off the air—and clearly enjoying every step of the journey.
You can catch Odessa on WNZR Wednesdays from 1–2pm and Thursdays from 11am–12pm.
Mark talked about how God has been faithful in his life, reminding him that there’s no need to fear. Instead, he’s learned to leave everything in God’s hands and trust that He will follow through on His promises. For Mark, it comes down to something simple but powerful—God is true to His word, and all we need to do is ask.
Part of that journey took him away from Mount Vernon for a time, living in Cincinnati and serving as a part-time worship pastor. During that season, it became clear that God was calling him to pursue worship as a full-time path, and that became evident to him over time.
Now back in Mount Vernon, Mark sees how God has been at work in his story all along.
He also shared something else God has been teaching him—people aren’t drawn to faith by something we create. It’s not about what can be manufactured. Instead, it’s God who draws people to Himself.
Even in a world filled with misinformation and mistrust, Mark says he still sees a hunger for truth. And for him, that truth is found in the Bible. It’s a reminder that while everything else may change, God does not.
And through it all, Mark says God continues to prove faithful.
Rise and Shine 