Students Protest CSU’s Radio Station Transfer to Ideastream

Students and community members expressed their concerns over Cleveland State University’s (CSU) recent agreement with Ideastream Public Media, which has resulted in the transformation of WCSB 89.3, a student-run radio station. The deal, finalized on October 3, 2025, has prompted protests, as many believe it signifies a significant loss of opportunities for student broadcasters.

Protesters gathered outside the City Club of Cleveland on Friday, voicing their discontent with the changes to the station’s programming, which has shifted from a diverse music and talk format to a focus on JazzNEO. Among the attendees were students, alumni, former staff members, musicians, and concerned community members. They chanted slogans such as “Give it back, give it back,” and “Shame on you, CSU,” highlighting their frustration not only with the loss of the station but also with the manner in which the agreement was negotiated.

The students and volunteers learned about the CSU-Ideastream deal on the very day it was signed, raising questions about transparency and student involvement. While CSU continues to hold the Federal Communications License, Ideastream now manages the station, taking on responsibilities related to maintenance and repairs. CSU has not received any financial compensation from Ideastream but will receive promotional spots on JazzNEO over the next eight years. Additionally, CSU President Laura Bloomberg has secured a position as a voting member on Ideastream’s board, a point of contention among protesters.

Tom Orange, the former WCSB jazz director, criticized the agreement, stating, “These are publicly accountable institutions that made dirty, secret, backroom dealings.” He suggested that if CSU truly aimed to empower students, they should have included a student representative on the board instead of granting a seat to President Bloomberg. The agreements between CSU and Ideastream lack specific details regarding future student participation, although one clause mentions the need to prioritize internships and project opportunities.

Many in the community feel that CSU squandered the chance to create a student internship program with Ideastream, which could have fostered student engagement and empowerment. Orange described the current jazz music being played as mainstream and limited compared to the station’s previous offerings.

Community members also voiced their disappointment. Jim Ridge, executive director of Share the River and a former college DJ, stated, “In one fell swoop, those guys did an authoritarian takeover of a beloved Cleveland institution.” He underscored the station’s historical significance to the local community and culture.

The station had seen a surge in student interest, with 24 student members this semester and nearly 20 additional applications for future participation, according to Jacklyn Bomgardner, a former WCSB vice president. Student broadcaster Brendan Hanstein, who hosted two programs, expressed his frustration over the abrupt changes, revealing that he and others were locked out of the station on the day of the transition. “It feels like they did it the worst way possible,” he said.

As the protest continued, attendees underscored the need for CSU to acknowledge the impact of their decision on the community and the student body. The future of WCSB 89.3 remains uncertain, with many hoping for a resolution that honors the station’s legacy and supports student involvement.