KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Benny Smith, the longtime general manager of WUTK, released a statement amid controversial changes at the University of Tennessee's student-led radio station.
You can read the full statement below.
"After a great deal of consideration and discussion with my family, I made the decision to retire as general manager of WUTK. I will remain an employee through the end of the year and will work with university leadership to ensure a smooth transition.
I have served the Knoxville community for nearly 20 years at WUTK, and that service has been a blessing. It has been a dream come true to mentor a generation of eager student broadcasters and to nurture a local music scene full of kind, creative people that help make our city a vibrant and special place.
With the changes coming to WUTK, for me it was the right time personally to make this move. I want to thank the students, volunteers, and community members that showed me so much support during this process. My only request is that they continue to show the same level of support for WUTK now and in the future.
First and foremost, I am a Vol For Life. I love the University of Tennessee, and I will continue to be a joyful part of its alumni community. I am leaving knowing that I gave my all for Tennessee. I am looking forward to what comes next. Stay tuned."
On Friday, UT said Smith was on leave and that only staff and students would manage the station. Volunteers would no longer be welcome, many of whom were alumni with a deep love for the radio station.
Friday's news shocked Knoxville's music and radio scene since Smith has developed a well-respected reputation. WUTK has won numerous awards under his leadership, including "Knoxville's Best Radio Station."
"We were shocked, and Benny has been such a huge part of the local music community for the past 30 years," WUTK volunteer Wayne Bledsoe said.
UT's College of Communication and Information Dean Joseph Mazer released a statement Monday claiming Smith informed him that he intended to retire at the end of the year.
"Benny Smith, who has been serving as general manager of WUTK, has shared with me his intent to retire at the end of the year and we are working cooperatively to that end," Mazer said. "We appreciate his many years of service and will work with Benny over the next few months to create a smooth transition as we welcome our students back to campus."
In the same statement, Mazer said the school plans to incorporate volunteers back into WUTK, but doesn't anticipate using them in the same way.
