History of URH
Feb. 1, 2002 - University Radio Hilo gets its Internet startup. Founded by “Z” Knight, an astronomy student, who at the time was serving as a student senator. There was no money to broadcast so the station was launched with a computer donated by the IT department and another purchased by the student activities council. UH-Hilo Theater lent a sound board and the control room was set up in a former dormitory at HAW-CC. General Manager was Mark Farrell.
Apr. 3, 2006 - University Radio Hilo begins broadcasting on 1640AM. In addition to the internet stream, the installation of transmitters on the roof of the UH-Hilo Theater allow the station to reach a broader audience. The station’s first regular morning show is hosted by student, Josh Pacheco with John Burnett, station advisor.
Xxx xx, xxxx - University Radio Hilo moves from Hale Aloha on the HAW-CC campus to Campus Center at UHH.
Xxx xx, xxxx - Broadcasting on 1640AM ceases. Internet streaming continues.
Jan. 28, 2014 - University Radio HIlo submits an application with the Federal Communication Commission for a construction permit for a low-power FM broadcast station. Jake Galves, University Radio Hilo advisor, and Luoluo Hong, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, prepare and certify all paperwork on behalf of the students.
Feb. 26, 2014 - University Radio Hilo is granted a Federal Communications Commission construction permit to build a radio station on the University of Hawaii Hilo campus under the call letters KUHH-LP. The LP designation means it is to be a low-power station. General manager, Kyle Douglas begins working with campus electricians to install all equipment.
May 11, 2015 - Construction is complete and University Radio Hilo launches its FM signal. Broadcasting at less than 100 watts, programming can be heard throughout the greater area of Hilo. State of the art broadcasting software is installed in the on-air studio to offer students an opportunity to gain experience on up to date equipment.
Dec. 3, 2018 - University Radio Hilo installs a new sound isolation enclosure for on-air broadcasting in their office. It is designed to provide students with a learning lab that simulates the setting of a commercial radio station.
July 26, 2020 - University Radio Hilo updates the equipment in the on-air studio from analog to digital hardware. State of the art equipment is installed to simulate the settings of a professional, commercial radio station.
Mar. 4, 2021 - University Radio Hilo launches internet stream to provide services to students learning remotely due to COVID-19. General Manager, Michael Taylor, along with staff and a team of 15 DJs were successfully able to fulfill the mission of URH despite the challenges of having to constantly adjust to a global pandemic.
June 21, 2021 - University Radio Hilo along with the assistance of Campus Center staff construct a second sound isolation booth in the office. This booth is to function primarily as an audio production/editing studio lab where students can sharpen their audio production/editing skills. The booth can also function as a secondary sound isolation area for on-air shows needing more space due to COVID Restrictions.
Sept. 6, 2021 - FCC Broadcasting License Renewal Process Commences. On behalf of the students of University Radio Hilo, Jake Galves - URH Advisor, Lai Sha Bugado - Campus Center Director and Farrah Marie Gomes - Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs prepare documents to be submitted electronically to the Federal Communications Commission by Oct. 1, 2021
Sept. 20, 2021 - FCC Broadcasting License Renewal Documents confirmed and submitted. Pending Approval.
Jan. 24, 2022 - FCC grants renewal of license for KUHH-LP. Renewal valid through 02/01/2030.
Nov. 7, 2024 - URH applies for an expansion of its internet stream to be accessible through Audacy App
Dec 2, 2024 - University Radio Hilo’s internet stream expansion is approved to be accessible on the Audacy platform: https://www.audacy.com/stations/universityradiohilo