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PALM DESERT, CA — The desert is buzzing with pride as College of the Desert’s acclaimed COD Roadrunner Radio grabs the spotlight, capturing the prestigious 1st Place Golden Mic Award as the Best Streaming Online Community College Radio Station in America! This sensational honor was revealed on March 8, 2025, at the electrifying 2025 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Conference in New York City, celebrating the brightest emerging talents in broadcasting.

But the applause doesn’t stop there—two exceptional COD students also dazzled on the national stage, taking home Golden Mic Awards for their brilliance. Dante Grasseschi enchanted judges with his cinematic music journey, “Music Seeking Movie,” clinching Best Specialty Music Show. Meanwhile, L. Angelo Benevides hit the right notes in podcasting excellence with “The Popcast,” earning the title of Best Podcast.

Joining them in the limelight were several remarkable COD nominees who ranked among the elite top 5% nationwide. Martha Hackett shined as a finalist for Best Student On-Air Personality. At the same time, Cynthia Portillo-Rodriguez scored accolades for her dynamic sports coverage in “The Firebirds – Hockey” pre-game/post-game show. Vanessa Braden's savvy social media strategies earned her recognition as a top Student Social Media Director. Celina Gentry, COD Media Center Lab Technician, was honored for her outstanding behind-the-scenes contributions.

Reflecting on these impressive accomplishments, station manager Scott Hackett proudly remarked, “I am not surprised. These students come to us eager and ready to learn, dedicating hours to perfecting their skills and creating compelling content. Their hard work and passion are truly deserving of national recognition.”

The students celebrated their achievements at the IBS Awards Ceremony during the annual conference, held from March 5–9. This event was further enriched by broadcasting icon Al Roker, who shared inspirational stories of his humble radio beginnings. Roker’s journey to becoming a household name perfectly mirrored the aspirations of COD’s talented students.

"This year, we reached the pinnacle,” said a delighted Laurilie Angelo Benevides. “It’s amazing knowing that the creativity and passion we invest each day resonate nationally. We're more motivated than ever to keep delivering great content!”

Since 2013, COD Roadrunner Radio has continuously amplified student success at the IBS Awards, solidifying its place as a premier training hub for future radio and entertainment professionals. With cutting-edge programs and hands-on production experience, the station continues to launch the careers of tomorrow’s broadcasting stars.

Congratulations to Roadrunner Radio and all the outstanding COD students for setting the airwaves alight! To learn more about Roadrunner Radio, contact Laurilie Jackson at 760.578.4513 or visit www.codroadrunnerradio.com.