In 1994, Houston Community College System (HCC) was granted one of four paid educational broadcast stations in Houston. What started as a means for students to view lectures at home evolved into the college's sole fully operational television station. Over three decades, HCCTV has transformed significantly, with pivotal contributions from individuals like Dr. Toni Rao Southerlan and Willie Bryant. These two women reminisced about the station's formative years, its impact on local media professionals, and its challenges amidst technological evolution.
The Evolution of HCCTV: From Humble Beginnings to Modern-Day Challenges
Back in the early days, HCCTV operated out of an abandoned classroom adorned with black-painted walls. The broadcasts were simple—half-hour shows featuring one interviewer conversing with a few weekly guests. Joseph Jay Smith, affectionately remembered as "our one-man band," played a crucial role by single-handedly managing all production cameras. His legacy lives on through a scholarship awarded to student interns at HCCTV.
As HCCTV grew, it moved to a more sophisticated setup at 3821 Caroline St., expanding its staff and acquiring a remodeled van that functioned as a mobile production unit. This vehicle enabled the team to broadcast high school football games using generators and thick cables laid across stadiums. Eventually, HCCTV relocated to its present location at 1300 Main St., where it mimicked the design of professional television stations under the guidance of an engineer.
Inside studios A and B, vibrant productions came to life, including live music performances, cooking shows, and community-focused programs. One such program, "Dialogue Houston," hosted by Laurence Payne, became a cornerstone of HCCTV's identity. Payne dedicated over three decades to this show, making it a platform for addressing local issues. Another cherished series, "The Student Lounge," provided students hands-on experience in producing newscasts related to college topics.
Today, HCCTV continues to offer internship opportunities and work-study programs, allowing students to gain valuable broadcast experience while earning college credits. However, both Southerlan and Bryant express concern about dwindling student interest and institutional support. They attribute this decline partly to evolving media consumption habits and insufficient funding. Despite these challenges, Chancellor Ford Fisher’s backing offers some hope for future initiatives, such as creating a regional news show.
From a journalist's perspective, the story of HCCTV is a poignant reminder of how educational institutions can nurture creativity and technical skills. It underscores the importance of maintaining communication channels within organizations to ensure all components align toward a shared vision. Moreover, it highlights the necessity of adapting to changing media landscapes while preserving the essence of quality content creation. As HCCTV strives to regain its former vibrancy, it serves as a testament to resilience and dedication in the face of adversity.