Beyond the Mic: A Documentary Of KAOR’s Voices & History

Author

• Sydney M. Kolln, University of South DakotaFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Department/Major

Contemporary Media and Journalism

First Advisor

Todd Mechling

Second Advisor

Janet Davison

Third Advisor

N/A

Keywords

KAOR, student-run radio, college broadcasting, University of South Dakota, student media, radio history

Subject Categories

Film Production | Other Film and Media Studies | Photography | Radio

Abstract

The University of South Dakota’s Media & Journalism Department celebrated the 40th anniversary of KAOR, the university’s student-run radio station, on Oct. 2, 2025. The celebration recognized generations of students whose creativity, leadership, and dedication contributed to the station’s growth and continued legacy on campus. This thesis explores the history and growth of KAOR through research, historical documents, and personal accounts from former and current KAOR students. By examining the station across multiple decades, the project highlights how student radio has adapted to changing technology and campus culture. This written thesis accompanies a 30-minute documentary focused on key eras in the station’s history, particularly the 1980s, 2000s, and 2020s. Through interviews with alumni, advisors, and current students, the documentary captures the impact KAOR has had on those involved and its role within the University of South Dakota and Vermillion community. Together, the thesis and documentary preserve the legacy of KAOR and demonstrate the lasting value of student-run radio in higher education.

Comments

Down below is a link to the documentary portion of this thesis: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPETI-R6c-Y

Recommended Citation

Kolln, Sydney M., "Beyond the Mic: A Documentary Of KAOR’s Voices & History" (2026). Honors Thesis. 430.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/430