The recent sale of long-time classical radio station KDB to Santa Monica-based NPR affiliate KCRW has resulted in an unexpected boon for Antioch University Santa Barbara (AUSB), which will house the offices of KCRW’s new local operations.
According to online articles in the Independent and Noozhawk, Antioch students will be tapped as interns and volunteers for the public radio station. In an unusual swap agreement, the Santa Barbara Foundation sold KDB to KCRW on Tuesday, February 18. Meanwhile, KDB’s classical programming at 93.7FM will be taken over by Los Angeles-based KUSC, which is vacating the 88.7FM frequency it has broadcast through locally for the last 20 years so KCRW can gain a foothold and stronger signal in the Central Coast region.
“Antioch University congratulates KCRW on its expansion to Santa Barbara and welcomes the station to our thriving downtown campus,” said AUSB President Nancy Leffert, PhD. “We are very excited to house a public radio affiliate, which will not only provide Antioch students with the unique opportunity to gain practical experience through internships in communications and related areas, but will also support our ongoing commitment to supporting the community at large.”
According to station manager Jennifer Ferro, KCRW intends to continue broadcasting such favorite NPR shows as “All Things Considered” and “Morning Becomes Eclectic,” as well as culturally responsive news, music, public affairs and local programming, which will eventually include a Santa Barbara-focused version of “Morning Edition.”
