Remembering Mark Lane

Mark Lane was a true individual. Mark had a personality that stuck with us, even years after he left the station. Memories of his time in the studio are impossible to shake, not that you would ever want to even if you could. He was a person driven to accomplish everything he set his mind to. Mark pushed himself and those around him to excel, whether on-air, behind the scenes, or in the classroom, Mark’s drive was infectious and showed that even the smallest details deserve effort if you want to get the job done right. He could be a polarizing student, quick to challenge ideas from students and professors alike, he always brought a unique perspective to the discussion that pushed it forward.

His way with words allowed him to quickly earn the role of afternoon host on RSU Radio. For two hours a day, two days a week, he would open the mic and bring a passion to the airwaves that was unmatched by many at the time. Free Association was a true variety show, playing music, taking calls, and interviewing guests on all different subjects. The centerpiece of his show, and why it was aptly named, was Mark’s ability to talk about nearly anything. off the cuff, without hesitation, at a surprisingly high level. He could flip any subject into any idea he wanted to discuss. Mark could segue himself out of a maximum security prison if he ever needed to. Free Association became one of the most talked about shows on KRSC-FM at the time.

In a world that had not fully embraced online communication, Mark struck a perfect balance between understanding the traditional media landscape and the new media he knew would eventually take over an important role in the industry. He was known on the RSU campus for his YouTube channel which usually focused on football content, particularly his beloved Dallas Cowboys. He was a well-respected member of Cowboys online communities and built enough of a reputation to earn opportunities, and eventually, jobs covering the NFL. He worked at RSU TV, volunteered at RSU Radio, wrote for online publications, created YouTube content, and got experience in just about every area of media he could get his hands on. After graduation, he produced for Voice of America, several radio groups, and high school sports events. He contributed to Fox Sports for nearly a decade, covering the Dallas Cowboys training camps, interviewing players, and writing about a team he loved.

In an industry that can be brutal to break into and cut-throat to rise through, Mark never seemed to see others as competition. Champion to all, he found ways to lift, collaborate with, or at the very least, cheer on those around him. He wanted to succeed but never seemed to see the point of succeeding at the detriment of someone else. Mark’s gentle toughness was undoubtedly influenced by his childhood battle with cancer. He owned his trials but avoided bitter words about the hand he was dealt. In fact, it seemed like the only times Mark ever had many negative words coincided with the Cowboys missing the playoffs.

Today, we remember Mark
The Lane Train
The Champion of Chicken
The Fort Smith Fireball
Mark Lane