THE FUTURE OF KMHD2

KMHD2, Mt. Hood’s student-run livestreaming “broadcast” program, is embracing the rapid pace of technological advancements by shifting towards a multimedia platform.

The co-curricular program’s plan includes development of an iOS and Android app, with hopes of those being completed at the end of Spring Term. The app will allow students to engage with their peers, and the community at large.

The shift is a timely one. With no signs of virtual connectivity slowing down, the need for an interactive application is real. More and more colleges and universities are turning to apps to keep students connected and engaged, according to an article from Peterson’s, a college services company. These apps contain upcoming events, breaking news, campus maps, and can even provide special alerts.

With this new platform, the KMHD2 livestream content will be created cohesively by the students, for the students, with an idea of reaching a broader audience. The updates to this co-curricular program should give participants the hands-on experience of creating, managing and designing media content while familiarizing themselves with the equipment needed to do so.

Forced to adapt by the formal phaseout of MHCC’s traditional broadcasting program (mandated by college officials in early 2020), KMHD2 leaders hope to modernize the student-run media while paying tribute to the longtime history of KMHD radio, and its jazz music affiliation.

JD Kiggins, Integrated Media instructor and the student media adviser, spoke of the desire to maintain a music-focused radio program associated with KMHD2 while adopting new digital programs. After the student radio station’s funding via student fees was eliminated by last year’s Associated Student Government (ASG), he has continued finding ways to fund the music program, either by redirecting funds from the instructional budget or using money out-of-pocket.

“I didn’t want to lose the legacy of all the music,” Kiggins said. KMHD-FM (89.1 FM on radio and also streaming online), founded by MHCC, has been providing jazz to Multnomah County and the greater Portland area since 1984. KMHD2 is currently a music broadcast program of new emerging artists and what some would consider “college music.”

With the student radio station securing enough funds to continue to operate, Kiggins invites all students to try their hand at “broadcasting” – which today, encompasses all of how we watch, listen and interact with the digital world. Virtual talk, educational, and entertainment programs are all examples of broadcasting.

Historically, any MHCC student has had the opportunity to utilize equipment and recording studios related to the student radio station. English students were often found recording spoken word for extra credit, and members of Mt. Hood’s own student newspaper, The Advocate, were able to gain experience in video streaming a weekly news broadcast.

Looking ahead, students can still expect to have access to recording equipment regardless of their affiliation with the co-curricular KMHD2 program. Every group or individual could find a use, such as Mt. Hood’sASG recording and broadcasting its annual candidate debates, The Advocate providing news programs, or any student who has an idea for a podcast producing one.

The student radio station is incorporating these factors into redevelopment of its co-curricular activities and what those will look like for students and staff.

Those with further interest in participating in student media, whether it be starting a podcast, reserving a music block slot, or getting involved, may reach out to Kiggins with any questions at [email protected], and in the meantime, tune into the music broadcast program online at http://kmhd2.org/