When people invest in others — personally, professionally and spiritually — they often spark a ripple effect that shapes futures. Across industries nationwide, leaders are embracing this mindset, mentoring and equipping the next generation to lead with purpose.
Bill Montgomery, president and CEO of The River Radio in Columbus, Ohio, exemplifies servant leadership and mentorship through his dual roles at Ohio’s leading Christian radio network and as an adjunct instructor at Cedarville University. Montgomery has taught in Cedarville’s Department of Communication since 2012, sharing his industry expertise with students eager to impact media for Christ.
The River — a network of Christian radio stations operated by River Radio Ministries — reaches listeners across central and southern Ohio with a mission to uplift and encourage through positive music, faith-based programming and community involvement. Montgomery joined the organization in 2008 and became CEO after years of innovation and service within the ministry.
Among those impacted by his leadership is Laci Strouse, a senior professional writing and information design major from Sunbury, Ohio. Her story began with a simple email to Montgomery, which opened unexpected doors.
“After I sent my credentials, he invited me for an interview and introduced me to the station’s chief operating officer,” Strouse said. “They asked what my ideal internship would look like. I told them I wanted to use my writing skills on the business side while serving in evangelistic outreach. They created a position that matched my goals — I was their first intern designed around a student’s vision.”
Strouse’s internship became a full-time summer experience and later evolved into a part-time role during the school year. She also discovered a familiar community at The River — several of her co-workers were Cedarville alumni.
“We connected right away, sharing stories about our time at Cedarville and how campus has changed over the years,” Strouse said.
Even in a supportive environment, the role tested her abilities.
“I was asked to take on projects outside my comfort zone,” she said. “Cedarville prepared me for that. Professors always encourage us to step out, take risks and grow through challenges.”
Another Cedarville graduate, Eric Stroud, also experienced Montgomery’s investment firsthand. A 2022 broadcast journalism alumnus, Stroud interned at The River as a student, later joining the team full time for three years before returning to Cedarville this fall as a communication instructor.
“Bill taught me what it means to lead with humility and purpose — qualities I now try to pass on to my students,” Stroud said.
Through his continued connection with Cedarville, Montgomery is helping bridge classroom learning with real-world media experience, preparing students to lead with excellence and faith. His influence extends beyond the studio or classroom — he is shaping both careers and character, inspiring the next generation to invest in others.
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.