Go WCMO!

Final GO WCMO Campaign

We’re asking for your help one last time, to complete the final phase of the incredible transformation of the WCMO studio, behind the scenes and in front of the camera! Our final ask is to rebuild our two remaining sets – Talk and Sports – which are crumbling in front of our eyes. An anonymous, alumni donor has made our goal easier by agreeing to match all funds raised up to $14,000, which will cover the costs of both sets! Let’s Go WCMO!

There aren’t any second-hand sets available and our crumbling flats with their dents, bumps and cracks can’t be saved, so with your help and our matching gift, we can professionally design, build, and transform our last two sets. Updated logos included!

• New flats for both sets will be made of more durable, lasting materials, so no more warping, dents, and cracks; and new rugs will make the spaces less reflective and greatly improve sound quality
• Talk Set will be designed to facilitate conversation (traditional or podcast) and make the student experience more professional and comfortable
• Sports Set will reflect the energy and vibrancy of our strong sports programs

What have we accomplished with your funds to date?

Phase 1 Overview – Day of Giving 2022:

WCMO TV

• Replaced the video router and audio board ;
• Deep cleaned the studio and painted the old flats and the studio floor;
• Worked with Glenn Doell from Curtis Elliott Designs to develop three graphic renderings which helped us perfect our vision for the news, talk and sports sets;
• When we raised more than our goal, Glenn was able to guide the first half of the news set updates which included some architectural elements and a new news desk and chairs;
• Purchased a tripod desk for sports anchors;
• Updated the teleprompter.

Phase 2 Overview – Day of Giving 2023

WCMO TV

• Completed the second half of the news set updates;
• Updated the equipment for streaming;
• Corrected audio issues and replaced control room speakers;

WCMO FM

• With the help of the physical plant, we remodeled and added a window to a former office near WCMO TV and WMRT FM and moved WCMO FM into this much nicer studio space;
• Improvements to this space include new cabinets, paint, carpet, counter top, headsets, chairs, speakers, video monitor, computer with updated automation software, mic stands, racks to hold equipment, amplifier, sound deadening panels, etc.;
• We are working through the FCC application process to increase power/broadcasting of WCMO FM to 100-watts;
  
• Replaced the audio processor which makes a big difference in the sound quality.

WMRT FM

• Purchased a new STL transmitter which replaces one that was borrowed after the original one failed.

DEDICATED PODCASTING STUDIO

• WCMO FM’s old space is being reworked to be a dedicated podcasting space to accommodate intense interest in producing podcasts;
• New additions include a podcasting mixer, mics, headsets, computer with podcasting software, frames for some of the cool posters, racks to hold equipment, etc.

Thanks to YOU, the updates to WCMO TV, WMRT FM and WCMO FM are transforming our facility! We were also just approved to INCREASE OUR POWER for the radio station which means 100 miles of listening pleasure!