The history of DU radio has been long and complicated, but it is far from over. There have been four stations in the past, one of which actually separated from the university and became part of Colorado Public Radio as an independent National Public Radio affiliate. The last radio station, in operation last year, faded out due to lack of student interest, according to Jack Foersterling, sophomore journalism major as well as former and current member of the station from Barrington, Illinois.
However, DU radio is back and better than ever. KXDU, the DU’s new radio station, will begin streaming early this quarter with a fresh outlook.
The new staff of the radio station all became involved in the revival process through different means.
Logan Baker, freshman journalism and English major and programming manager for KXDU, realized that the radio room, filled with equipment and an impressive collection of CDs, was going unused. He approached Andrew Matranga, faculty advisor for the Clarion, who put him in touch with other students who had also expressed interest in participating in the radio station.
Foersterling, now a DJ for the station, was on the radio staff last year and wanted to continue.
Kelley Schweissing, freshman political science and economics major from Grand Junction, Colo. and station manager of KXDU, had always wanted to participate in broadcast radio, even if he had to help start the program himself. “It always looked fun. I didn’t know I’d have to build it myself, but its better this way,” he said.
The radio station is now ready for operation. What was an unused room full of boxed equipment at the beginning of the year is now stocked with microphones, soundboards, and a record player, among other supplies. Behind a door covered with colorful stickers lie shelves upon shelves of CDs ready to be played again.
The staff has made several changes to the station that set it apart from its previous incarnations. There have been improvements to the management system, with well-defined roles and more accountability. It will also be streamed exclusively online, which allows the DJs and talk-show hosts much more leniency with FCC regulations regarding censorship and song airing restrictions than shows airing on a public frequency. The staff also hopes to garner much more student involvement, both through listeners tuning in and students participating in the station itself. “The more people participate the more people will listen, and so if you would like to participate please stop by,” said Schweissing.
The programming for the station is highly varied to appeal to all tastes. The station features different radio shows, including talk radio and sports shows. Any idea is welcomed by the staff, and so anything is possible. “Every show has its own vibe. I like to play a variety of music and talk between songs,” said Foersterling. Student DJs choose what they air so music selection varies immensely. Depending on which show is airing at the time, listeners may sample music that is popular or underground, country or alternative, and anything in between. Of course, student suggestions are always welcome on content as well.
Students interested in becoming involved in radio broadcast are welcome to become involved at KXDU. Whether through listenership or joining the team at the station, participation is not only encouraged, but considered vital. “This is not our radio station; this is DU’s radio station,” said Kelley Schweissing, reflecting the importance of student involvement at the station.
If students are interested, they are highly encouraged to contact the station manager at kschweissing@gmail.com .
KXDU will start streaming on April 7th at KXDU.org.
