The popularity of the Network grew rapidly. The
voice of the Network began to define itself as the station became a major
outlet for student interests. Programming was aimed toward the student
body, since it was the only group of people who could hear it. According
to aMichigan Daily Freshman Issue from 1960, WCBN-AM did
regular broadcasts of Michigan football, basketball, and hockey games;
band, glee club, and orchestra concerts; and various other campus events.
In addition, all of WUOM's programming was available for WCBN to broadcast.
The carrier current broadcasting system was brought
into other University buildings, including women's dormitories and the
President's residence. As the years progressed, carrier current loops were
installed into private residences, including the Inter-Cooperative Council's
building on North Campus.
Although the Network had been formally created
as a single entity, its studios remained scattered across campus until
1957. With the erection of the new Student Activities Building on central
campus came a suite of studios and offices for CBN. Centralization simplified
both management and engineering,
With growth came greater financial need, and the
Network began to take advertising from both
local and national businesses. Revenue went back into equipment purchases
and other station expenses.
A conscience change was made to WCBN's programming
by its Program Director in 1969. It was stated that the programming of
the station would reflect the needs and wants of its audience, instead
of those of the air staff. This was a big step in the evolution of the
Network, as this is a directive that is followed by today's programming
staff.
Throughout the latter half of the 1960's, many
CBN members felt that the goals of the station would be better executed
if WCBN broadcast on FM, in addition to carrier current AM. During 1969
and 1970, a great deal of research was carried out to determine if this
would be possible (and it was). On November 30, 1970, WCBN put forth a
proposal to the Office of Student Services
Policy Board asking for support and funding.
In February of 1971, the Board of Regents approved
the proposal for a 10-watt WCBN-FM, and construction began.
