He was a beloved philosopher, visionary, persuasive public speaker, and above all, he had a heart for humanity. He is well known all over the world, but best known to the residents of Claremore as a humble humanitarian. Will Rogers was a man of his word, and his words of wisdom still live on today through a new radio program, The Will Rogers Minute.
Rogers State University Radio KRSC-FM partnered with the Will Rogers Memorial Museum to bring Rogers voice to life. The program, which highlights the life and legacy of Rogers, is produced weekly, airing every Wednesday at 7:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., and 4:45 p.m. on RSU Radio. It is also available nationwide for stations to run via the Public Radio Exchange.
Tad Jones, the executive director of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, is excited to be working with RSU radio to remind people that there is wisdom to be shared.
“Will is a major figure in American history. Sharing his thoughts and experiences to a new audience and generation is exciting and hopefully they will glean some wisdom from him,” Jones said. “Everyone can learn a little something from Will. He was friends with royalty and the common man, and he spoke simply so everyone could understand.”
Each radio segment looks at a theme tied to Rogers’ life. An interpreter reenacts his voice for quotes to give a better sense of his history.
Tip Crowley, the station manager at RSU Radio, is proud to collaborate with the museum to provide content and access for the community to learn about Rogers’ heritage.
“Will has a legacy that touched people all over the world. From his radio speeches, to political discourse, to advocacy for aviation, he was one of the most influential people of his time,” Crowley said. “Many of his words are just as meaningful today as they were nearly 100 years ago. Because of his tie to the area, and the amazing resource available at the Will Rogers Memorial, RSU Radio is happy to keep his memory alive.”
While our current economic status isn’t quite the level of hardship Rogers experienced, he would have understood. His discernment and kindness is still applicable today.
“Will lived through the Spanish Flu, the Great Depression and political upheaval. Some of the same type issues we are facing today,” Jones said. “Will said, ‘America is the land of opportunity and don’t ever forget it,’ ‘Live your life so that whenever you lose, you are ahead,’ and ‘It’s great to be great, but it’s greater to be human.’ He would want us to live life to the fullest and help our fellow man.”
Many people may know his name, but Crowley and Jones agree it is important to understand Will Rogers words and his legacy.
“Anyone can benefit from listening. As a short-form program, it only takes one minute to listen. Everyone from listeners in our community to history buffs, politically active folks to others who are just looking for a good laugh,” Crowley said. “Will spoke at both the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. He bridged gaps, and we hope this program can help do the same.”