KENW director of broadcasting honored for 50 years of service

A lot can happen in 50 years. Radio and television stations can be formed, and a plethora of students can go on to successful careers in broadcasting. For Duane Ryan, that scenario is a reality.

The KENW director of broadcasting was honored at the Eastern New Mexico University Spirit of Eastern Awards for half a century at the station.

KENW Community Services Consultant Don Criss gave a presentation on his boss, who he has worked with for 44 years.

He remembered the early days of the station, when Ryan was "a little tight with the buck."

"He told us in the first meeting that we didn't have much money for office supplies, (and) would we mind stopping by a bank to pick up some pens," he said.

In the station's first years, 115 students were trained by Ryan to help with all of the programs produced there, according to Criss.

"I have always thought that a person ought to spend the time of their lives doing something to make the world a better place. Duane has done that through KENW-TV and Eastern New Mexico University for 50 years," he said.

Criss also presented a video by ENMU graduate Augusta Meyers, who compared Ryan to the iconic Shure 55 microphone.

"All who have worked with and have been taught and mentored by Duane Ryan have come to know this man as a strong leader with endless energy and ideas. Just as the iconic microphone, he carries himself with professionalism and grace, day in and day out, throughout the years and decades," Meyers said.

The presentation pointed out that the radio portion of KENW came on the air in 1968 - Ryan's first year at ENMU - and the television portion was started in 1974.

Sheryl Borden, host of the KENW-TV program "Creative Living," has always admired Ryan for his focus on providing students with the best training for their future careers.

"I don't know how many hundreds of students that are in the broadcasting fields, but so many are in the top 100 markets with ABC, CBS, NBC, and they all credit KENW, and many of course, say Mr. Ryan," she said. "Duane's focus has always been on having the best equipment, so that the students will be on the cutting edge when they leave here."

Borden added that she can't think of anyone she admires more than Ryan.

"I've always appreciated the opportunity to get to work with him," she said.

Ryan said working with students brings him the most enjoyment, and that they have helped keep him working for 50 years.

"I enjoy everything about it, I think most of all working with the students that are interested in broadcasting and our staff. I really find that appealing," he said.