DSC Communication Department Receives $145K Donation from Simmons Media Group

The Dixie State College of Utah communication department has announced a partnership with Simmons Media Group that will help provide practical and hands-on experience to DSC students interested in broadcasting.

The partnership announcement, highlighted by a $145,000 donation from Simmons Media Group, coincided with the DSC communication department’s debut of a new classical music FM station, KXDS Dixie’s Classical 91, which began airing this past April 15. KXDS Dixie’s Classical 91 is currently broadcasting on a preview basis on FM frequency 103.1 KURR-FM, with plans to move to its permanent frequency home at 91.3 FM in the near future.

Simmons Media Group’s commitment to DSC includes donated equipment, a site lease, use of an on-air frequency and legal costs to make the partnership possible. As part of the partnership, Dixie State will also provide equipment and pay for power and utilities.

“Simmons Media is very pleased to become a partner with Dixie State College in providing quality media resources and experiences for students and listeners in southern Utah,” said Craig Hanson, President and COO of Simmons Media Group. “We look forward to assisting Dixie State with their outstanding mission to create a world class media organization that will prepare students for professional careers while providing exceptional programming and public service opportunities for the listening communities served. 

“We believe that the vision and values of Dixie State’s Media Department are compatible with our desire to create worthy and mutually beneficial relationships,“ Hanson added.

According to Paul Bulkley, general manager of KXDS, Dixie State’s radio broadcasting program will provide students with everyday practical and technical knowledge of a working radio station. He added that students will gain hands-on experience in radio station management, production, promotion and on-air talent enhancement, which includes disc jockey training, along with news and sports reporting.

“This program will give a jump-start to students seeking careers in broadcasting,” Bulkley said. “The partnership with Simmons Media will enable Dixie State College students to gain real-world experience that they may not have access to at other institutions.”

“The generosity of Simmons Media Group will greatly impact our community and our students,” said Christina Schultz, DSC Vice President of Advancement. “Dixie State’s communication degree is one of the fastest growing four-year programs on this campus and this collaboration will enhance that growth.”

KXDS Dixie’s Classical 91’s broadcast range covers Washington County and most of southwestern Utah, including as far north as Enterprise and Cedar City, along with coverage in Kanab and Mesquite, Nev. In addition, listeners are able to enjoy their classical music favorites online either at home or in the office at http://new.dixie.edu/classical91.

For more information on the new KXDS Dixie’s Classical 91 or to inquire about advertising, please contact general manager Paul Bulkley at 435-879-4264 or at bulkley@dixie.edu.