90.1 KBPK Evolves to Hornet Radio
The Hornet Media team is proud to announce the official rebrand of 90.1 KBPK to Hornet Radio, marking a new chapter in the evolution of student media at Fullerton College. Hornet Radio will continue its mission of providing high-quality, student-produced content in news, sports and culture while offering a 24-hour livestream of music and programming.
“People turn to audio and podcasts for so much of their information and entertainment–from news reports to talk shows to narrative and investigative programs,” said Jessica Langlois, journalism department chair. “By focusing on a fully digital 24-hour livestream and integrating our radio and audio programs with our other student media brands, we are expanding our reach and staying ahead of the curve.”
Hornet Radio is run by students, staff and faculty in Fullerton College’s journalism and radio programs, airing content that is produced and created by students. This transformation reflects Hornet Radio’s commitment to hands-on learning, expanding its reach and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of media and broadcasting.
“Hornet Radio represents the next step in the legacy of KBPK and gives our students real-world experience in multimedia production.” said Joseph Pavlenko, Hornet Radio operations manager.
Hornet Radio has a rich history, originating as KBPK, a Class D (non-commercial) FM radio station broadcasting from Buena Park, California. Originally owned by the Buena Park School District, KBPK was operated by the Fullerton College Media Studies Department, airing an adult contemporary format along with educational programs, sports events and public service announcements from 1972 to 2023.
Since the rebrand to Hornet Radio and creation of the Hornet Media family, students from the journalism and radio programs have produced a multi-episode narrative podcast that took home first place in multiple student audio journalism competitions around the country. Journalism and radio students also used Hornet Radio studios and its online platform to produce a four-hour livestreamed video broadcast on Election Night 2024, a series of video interviews with local candidates and a series of social media video explainers on ballot measures. These works were recognized with a first-place win in special election coverage by the California College Media Association.
“Having a streaming radio station is a hidden treasure for Fullerton College students,” said Ken Starkman, dean of the Division of Technology and Engineering. “We need to get the word out about this program and how it can support students who wish to improve their communication skills.”
Keep up with the latest Fullerton College news and learn more about Hornet Radio on its website.
