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The HFC radio station, WHFR-FM, is once again making (air)waves

WHFR DJ

HFC’s student-run radio station, WHFR-FM, has recently completed a significant step toward an equipment upgrade project to rebuild the station’s transmitter site.

A new antenna has recently been erected on the WHFR tower that sits on the top of the Reuther Liberal Arts Building (Bldg. K) on the main campus. The installation of this antenna addresses one of WHFR’s greatest needs in recent times: getting the station’s FM broadcast signal solidly back on the air at 89.3 FM, serving its loyal listeners and campus community. WHFR streams live via the internet on whfr.fm. While the internet stream was running consistently, the FM broadcast, where many community members and students listen, was spotty at best.

“The new antenna has been installed in anticipation of our new transmitter and other improvements, which we hope to complete sometime this spring. Early feedback and field testing of our FM signal has been very positive. With the updated antenna alone, the signal sounds clearer and stronger than ever!” said HFC Chairperson, Department of Communication and Media Susan McGraw, who is also the General Manager of WHFR.

Donor support keeps the station on the air

As a non-commercial, volunteer-staffed radio station, WHFR is not licensed to sell commercials and must rely on support from HFC and private donations in order to operate. Since WHFR receives no government funding, the majority of the station’s operating budget comes from donor support.

“We're grateful for the patience and support of our volunteer staff, and especially our loyal listeners, as these past several months have been trying for all,” said McGraw. “We're proud to share that once the equipment upgrade is completed, it will all lead to the best-sounding WHFR in our 36 years of broadcasting. This project could not have been possible without the ongoing generosity of our donors and the unwavering support of the HFC administration.”

Look for information about the WHFR spring fundraiser in April.

For more information about WHFR, contact McGraw at scmcgraw@hfcc.edu or whfr@hfcc.edu. Visit www.whfr.fm.