Michael Sandefer

Alumni Spotlight: Michael David Sandefer – A Legacy That Still Speaks Loud and Clear

Mike Sandefer’s legacy at Jacksonville State University doesn’t just echo through the campus—it broadcasts. As the founding voice behind WLJS, Jax State’s beloved campus radio station, Mike helped lay the foundation for a program that continues to inform, entertain, and inspire over five decades later.

Mike chose Jacksonville State because it felt like home: many of his high school friends were headed there, and it offered the opportunity to pursue his lifelong passion—radio. What started as a dream quickly turned into action. Mike not only helped bring WLJS to life, but he also became the station’s first driving force. “My passion since an early age was always radio, so it made sense to feed that passion by building a station at my college,” he shared.

Early broadcasts were live and thrilling. “We were a live broadcast station. It was exciting to see the phone light up with listener requests,” Mike recalls. One standout moment involved broadcasting live storm damage updates via CB radios—true innovation for the time. With only one studio to work with, the team would sign off mid-morning to produce segments before returning live at noon. These pioneering efforts set the tone for the station's future.

Mike’s work with WLJS had a profound impact on his personal and professional life. Convincing university leadership to approve the station was his first foray into pitching big ideas—a skill that served him well in his later career in franchise development and foodservice packaging. “That skill set was beneficial as I continued my career,” he said.

He also stayed active on campus as SGA Business Manager for three years and made history as the first student hired as a campus police officer. After earning his B.S. in 1974, he graduated from the Northeast Alabama Police Academy in 1975 and completed his M.P.A. at Jax State in 1976.

Mike fondly remembers his time living near the football practice field, afternoons spent watching the team, and the groundswell of support from fellow students with broadcast experience. One memory in particular stands out: climbing the library rooftop radio tower to install the station’s first antenna. He submitted four potential call signs to the FCC—WLJS, meaning "We Love Jax State," was the one that stuck.

Jax State’s collaborative spirit also made a lasting impression on Sandefer. “When the process of getting a construction permit appeared to stall, numerous faculty and professors extended support and encouragement,” he said. “That spirit still makes Jax State the friendliest campus in the South.”

His education provided more than just a degree—it built a foundation for a lifetime of success and purpose.

Mike is now helping coordinate a WLJS alumni reunion in conjunction with Homecoming this September. Highlights include:

• A radio alumni gathering at the station on Homecoming Day
• A live broadcast on September 29 at noon with alumni spanning five decades
• A fundraising goal of $50,000 for a new transmitter and studio equipment — a symbolic “$50K for 50 Years” campaign

“I’m most looking forward to reconnecting with those who were part of the launch, as well as those who helped carry the station forward,” Mike said.  He also continues to encourage current students to lead with passion and perseverance. “Don’t be afraid to fail or ask for help as you work toward your goals. Build on your passion, and most importantly—persevere.”

Today, WLJS continues to thrive—thanks to the vision and determination of Mike Sandefer and the many who followed in his footsteps. His voice helped build the station, and his legacy ensures it will always be heard.