MTV Networks has recently approached the University to offer the mtvU network on campus.
According to WSA Vice President Monica Arduini ’06, the contract would be for one year, and the network would be broadcast on one of the University’s three television stations. Currently none of the stations are being utilized, although there has been some organization for a WesTV station in the past.
“If WesTV ever needs a station, the other two will be available,” Arduini said. She added that WesTV has not applied for funding or group status this year.
While no decisions have been made, an informal poll of WSA members at Sunday’s meeting expressed support for adding the network. WSA members did not, however, support the 24-hour broadcast of the network on campus center televisions, which mtvU would potentially provide as part of the deal.
According to Arduini, some WSA members did express reservations about offering the network, which does broadcast commercials, in public student spaces.
The mtvU network is currently offered on over 730 campuses, reaching over 6.5 million students in dorm rooms, dining halls, fitness centers and student lounges. The network offers music videos, MTV and CBS News updates produced for a college audience, and information on job-hunting, internships, and traveling abroad. Additionally, mtvU’s website describes weekly $1,500 grants given to student organizations.
According to their website, “[mtvU is] just like you, we’re always on: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can catch mtvU when you’re late-night cramming, on your way to class, or lounging on the weekend.”
The mtvU website also promises to integrate students into programming:
“Having mtvU at your school means access to concert tours and on campus events; it means anyone from Senator John McCain to Sting might stand in for your professors and teach your classes for a day; it means you can take a study break and fly somewhere to hang out with bands like Taking Back Sunday and Jack Johnson; it means making some room in your day for 15 Minutes With Fame so you can interview celebrities and moguls like Ted Turner, Common and Catherine Zeta-Jones.”
The WSA is planning to meet with University Center Director and Dean of Campus Programs Richard Culliton within the week to further discuss the offer.
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