KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Benny Smith, the general manager of WUTK Radio at the University of Tennessee, will retire at the end of the year, UT said in a release.
"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," UT said.
The university said on Friday that the well-known figure was on leave and that only staff and students would manage the station. Volunteers would no longer be welcome.
"WUTK’s volunteers have provided dedicated service for which we are grateful," UT said. "While we don’t anticipate utilizing volunteers in the same way, we are working on a plan to incorporate volunteers back into WUTK."
The university said thanks to Smith, WUTK won numerous awards, including "Knoxville's Best Radio Station" multiple times.
"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."
On Monday, leaders said they are working on a plan to incorporate volunteers back into the running of the station, although they don't anticipate being able to utilize them in the same way.
According to the College of Communication and Information, Matt Keaton would oversee daily operations in an interim position reporting to Jody Hamblett.
UT said WUTK will continue to focus on the student experience and help to provide resources and support.
"WUTK will continue to be what it always has been, a learning laboratory that prepares students for successful careers in the media industry," the release said.