Saint Xavier University’s radio station, WXAV 88.3 FM, is being affected by the preventions put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.WXAV has put a pause on the daily shows directed by students to encourage following quarantine procedures. As they claim on their website, “Our number one priority is to ensure the safety and health of our student and volunteer staff.”
Saint Xavier University’s Director of Student Media Peter Kreten stated, “Currently, all student and volunteer radio shows on WXAV have been postponed until at least April 1st. It will more than likely be extended beyond this point. This has caused the management of WXAV to get creative in how we deliver content to our listeners.”
He continues, “So in addition to the standard music being played on 88.3FM and wxav.com, we are currently programming pre-recorded content, which will be aired throughout the weeks. This content will include airing old artist interviews students have conducted, student-created documentaries, and licensed radio shows through the Public Radio Exchange, better known as PRX.”
Although quarantine and social distancing is being practiced, we can still expect some new content from the station. Kreten adds, “The staff is also in the midst of creating original content which we will post to our website www.wxav.com and through our podcasting platforms: SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, and Google Play. Finally, the music department is creating original Spotify playlists to help listeners through this unprecedented time.”
Kreten discusses there have been a few times when shows have been postponed due to technical issues or power outages, but the radio station has never experienced such a tremendous event. Kreten claims the station will continue moving forward with the situation and monitoring the COVID-19 situation. “We are going to do what radio has always done well, and that’s adapt. So whatever the situation calls on WXAV to do, that’s what we will do. Our goal is to serve our community by first informing them, and second by entertaining them,” Kreten states.
He says”I’ve been open and honest with our listeners. I’ve posted updates on our website and worked with our staff in putting up-to-date information out to the public through our social media.”
Kreten claims he has been in contact with local university radio stations and a few college radio station general managers from across the United States.
“This situation is unique in that what may apply to one university or radio station, may not apply to WXAV and Saint Xavier. So the key for me has been making sure I best serve our student staff and best serve our community,” Kreten states.
Currently, WXAV continues looking for alternatives for the shows to continue. “For now, it’s a lot of pre-programming and ensuring that WXAV’s automation system is stacked with as much content as possible,” says Kreten.
“We hope these playlists will help ease the stress of this unprecedented situation. We all believe in the power of music. Music’s ability to take us away. To move us. To speak for us when we just can’t find the words. It is our honor to be apart of your everyday soundtrack,” the management team shares with the listeners on their website.