SummitMedia Departs Knoxville Program Director Matt Cooper

The veteran radio personality leaves his role at WCYQ 100.3 following organizational changes at SummitMedia.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A professional broadcast studio microphone and over-ear headphones on a wooden desk. — SummitMedia has released WCYQ 100.3 Program Director Matt Cooper, as the broadcaster implements widespread staffing cuts across its organization. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

SummitMedia has released Matt Cooper from his position as Program Director and midday host at WCYQ 100.3 in Knoxville. The departure comes as part of a series of company cuts affecting staff across the organization.

Why it matters

The exit of a key leadership figure like Cooper marks a significant shift for the station operations in the Knoxville area. His departure concludes a six-year tenure with the parent company as the broadcaster restructures.

Cooper spent six total years at SummitMedia and previously served five years at WUBE. He held his final role at the 100.3 WCYQ station in Knoxville.

The players

Matt Cooper

A veteran radio professional who served as a program director and host at multiple stations.

SummitMedia

A broadcasting company that owns and operates radio stations across various United States markets.

WCYQ

A Knoxville radio station broadcasting on the 100.3 frequency.

The details

Cooper, who previously tracked afternoons at WURV and WPYA, moved to the Knoxville station in September 2023. He is now seeking new employment opportunities following his release from the firm.

February 2020: Matt Cooper joined SummitMedia while based at WQNU.
September 2023: Cooper transferred to his role at WCYQ.
October 2026: The executive exited the company as part of organizational cuts.

Market Landscape

This staff reduction reflects the ongoing consolidation and cost-cutting measures within the radio broadcasting industry. Such changes highlight the pressure on regional broadcasters to centralize operations and optimize corporate overhead.

Listeners of WCYQ 100.3 may notice changes to midday programming and station management in the coming weeks. These shifts follow the company's decision to cut staff roles across their portfolio.

The takeaway

Radio listeners should stay tuned to local programming for updates on potential talent changes following station restructures. Professionals in the industry often navigate these cycles by leveraging their experience across multiple regional markets.