UNK’s radio station has undergone a major transformation over the past year and is now introducing its new identity as 91.1 Buffalo County’s Clear Alternative. The station is entirely operated by UNK students, highlighting hands-on learning and student leadership in broadcasting.
“We wanted to bring in modern technology, bring the station into a footprint where it had a steadier listenership,” said Stephanie Sandlin, UNK professor and general manager of the station.
In addition to the rebrand, KLPR Sports will continue to provide coverage of UNK athletics, now airing on 91.1 FM. The updated station will feature a variety of programming, including music ranging from classic rock to indie, community event announcements, news broadcasts and weekend specialty shows. Sandlin said expanding beyond campus was a key goal of the transformation.
“If we come off campus and include the community in what we do, we can actually synthesize and emulate broadcasting in a much greater way where students can be ready for the industry,” Sandlin said.
One of the most significant upgrades is the station’s new automation system. In the past, the station relied on a looping DJ track system that played songs and liners with limited flexibility. The new system functions more like a professional radio station, allowing for live updates and more dynamic programming.
“With the past system, it was basically a DJ track system that played songs and liners on a loop,” said Kade Mohr, a senior sports communication major and the station’s sports director. “Now it works like a regular radio station. So, the new system will help students get experience of what it would actually be out in the real radio world.”
Mohr, who has been involved with the station for three and a half years, said the improvements have created more opportunities for students to develop their skills.
“KLPR has allowed me to build so many connections, along with how many reps it has allowed me to have,” Mohr said. “Now with sports updates going on the air, I have gained so much experience with that. In the past, we couldn’t do those things.”
The station has also introduced a new weekly series called “Clear Connections,” with co-executive producers Carly Redford and Mario Crispin.
“Our goal is to reach not only people on campus, but people throughout the community to be more involved in the community,” Redford said.
“Clear Connections” will air every Saturday at noon, with new interviews being aired each week. Some of the interviews include Trails and Rails Museum, Alzheimer’s Association and The World Theatre.
“It’s in the name, we want to make connections with people of all ages and backgrounds,” Redford said. “Listen in and hear about something you might not have even known was in the community or places that are fundraising-based or non-profit.”
Buffalo County’s Clear Alternative will feature the voices of both current radio students and those who were previously part of the program, while also highlighting students in radio and announcing classes who are learning the fundamentals of broadcasting and station operations.
“A year ago, we had seven students around the radio station, and now we have 30 plus,” Sandlin said. “I hope we continue to grow and recruit students and a year from now we have 40 to 60 students involved.”
With its new identity, upgraded technology and expanded programming, 91.1 Buffalo County’s Clear Alternative aims to strengthen both student experience and community connection while giving students a clearer path into the broadcasting industry.
