Back in 1989 students had a vision. They worked very hard to gather support and find funding. They stuck by their vision as it materialized, and they brought forth a product for all to enjoy. Today that vision and product is still manifest in KWVA Eugene, 88.1 FM, Campus Radio — the student-owned and -operated radio station. KWVA is the only outlet on campus where students can gain real-life, first-hand broadcast experience.
Though there have been trying times in KWVA history, recent years have looked up. Particularly last May, when KWVA received a grant from the Associated Students of the University of Oregon for $118,498 to upgrade the ancient analog technology into a digital environment. KWVA has been operating with equipment that was donated when KWVA first started broadcasting.
Though KWVA has been fortunate to be able to maintain that equipment as it aged, repairs have became more and more difficult as the radio industry has taken a turn to digital, much like the television industry. Change for KWVA was imminent.
Well before May 2003, and the $118,498, KWVA was looking for ways to make this digital upgrade possible. When funds were finally secured, the project got underway. KWVA worked with University administration, the business office, ASUO and other departments and individuals to ensure the equipment being purchased would serve the greatest purpose possible.
Equipment was ordered and installation began. Setbacks and unexpected expenses, such as restructuring electrical access and the need for additional cables, slowed the process down and created a financial pinch. Funds were spent according to that which was allocated, and included the unexpected, necessary expenses. KWVA has a strong fiscal record. That fiscal responsibility has shown KWVA’s ability to manage funds, even under tight conditions, and was influential when KWVA requested the funds to make the upgrade.
Despite the setbacks, unexpected expenses and the many stresses, KWVA is confident that the upgrade progress, decisions and efforts have all been in good faith, for the greater development of the educational environment of the entire student body and those yet to come. Thousands of students have participated at KWVA, and there are surely thousands yet to come. KWVA involves these students and provides a learning environment, but it does much more.
Each individual who turns on 88.1 FM is impacted by the funds that were allocated. KWVA’s signal reaches beyond the campus area into the community and thus serves an even greater population. KWVA appreciates all those who helped with the development and acquisition of the funds necessary to complete this project. Look for open house announcements and your chance to see the completely upgraded studios in coming months.

Charlotte Nisser

law

general manager, KWVA