KBVU Celebrates Anniversary with BVU Alumni

2017 Dec 20

Last month, Buena Vista University's (BVU) campus radio station hosted an alumni "Birthday Mixer" to celebrate 20 years on the air at 97.5 FM.

"The idea to host an event blossomed about a year ago, and we were thrilled to see alumni from all over the state make the effort to attend," said Kyle Wiebers , who is a senior psychology major from Holstein and the station manager of KBVU. "Having the opportunity to interact with alumni from any generation is always something I look forward to."

Though the station has been around since the 1970s, it started broadcasting with its current frequency, wattage, and call letters in 1997, when the station was changed from KBVC to KBVU.

"A lot of things change over time, but KBVU has been a staple on BVU's campus for decades," said Wiebers, whose mom, Pam Kelly, graduated from BV in 1989 and was the station manager of KBVC in 1988-1989. "It's been a lot of fun to learn about the station's history and to watch it evolve over the years."

Over the past year, Wiebers has spearheaded rebranding efforts of the station, which include a new logo, a new website (www.kbvu975.com), and social media elements.

"We spent a lot of time refocusing on what it means to be a radio station in the 21st century," said Wiebers. "We've put a lot of work into KBVU, and the mixer was a great way to gather reactions from alumni about the changes we've made. We received a lot of positive feedback about the station and the direction it's headed."

To further celebrate the milestone, alumni and listeners also had the chance to call in to the station during KBVU's 24-hour live broadcast on Nov. 17. BVU alumni from across the nation, including California and Florida, called in to share their stories.

"It was touching to hear how special the station has been to others over the years and to learn that the fun, yet professional atmosphere of the station hasn't changed," added Wiebers.

Wiebers, who hosts a radio show every weekday morning, "The BV Breakfast Club with Kyle," has been involved with the station throughout his time at BVU.

"There have been two constants the past four years - my major and being involved with KBVU," added Wiebers, who plans to pursue graduate studies in psychology after graduation. "There's a lot I'm going to miss about the station, including the camaraderie. It's pretty rare to be involved with something that allows you to sharpen and showcase your skills, while also entertaining and informing others."