KPSU is a non-profit, non commercial, free format autonomous radio station with a vision to connect the Portland community with the larger scene of the world.
Broadcasting since 1994, KPSU is Portland’s college radio. Streaming student-run, non-commercial, and freeform radio from Portland State University 24/7. KPSU champions individuality and creativity. KPSU doesn’t impose any restrictions on the format of shows and doesn’t require DJ’s to play any certain songs during their airtime. This means that the eclectic mix featured on KPSU is a direct representation of the DJ on-air and not of an overarching shadow figure that influences programming behind the scenes.
DJ’s are the heart and soul of the station. KPSU’s DJ base is comprised of about 65 volunteers, the majority of whom are students. Many of the DJ’s seek to provide a platform for up and coming artists and counter culture that is traditionally ostracized or overlooked by mainstream media. The station operates 100% online. Listen to the live webstreams or download any program aired in the last six months.
KPSU was founded as a student body movement headed by Don Nasca, Sharon Brabanac, John Beil, Carl Bergwall, Aaron Cross, Kirill Galetski, and Brian Korver. They established a non-funded Student Organization named “The Friends of KPSU” in 1992, eventually securing $9000 in funding from Portland State University. Don Nasca was hired as the station’s first student advisor. Organizing student and faculty support; including a demonstration of hundreds of students at a University funding meeting, KPSU solidified continuing funding. The budding station eventually paired with KBPS; agreeing to share evening and weekend airtime with the Portland, OR station, owned by Portland Public Schools.1