1984 – Programming begins in September on MSTV (Missouri Southern TV), a cable access channel in Joplin. Programming includes student-produced and community access programming. MSTV begins coverage of Joplin City Council meetings, a commitment that continues today.
Missouri Southern enters the broadcast television world, with the establishment of K57DR-TV, serving the city of Joplin. The low-power television station operates on UHF channel 57.
In 1988, a broadcasting microwave tower rose above the Missouri Southern campus. The addition of the tower and with its link to a transmitter downtown brought television broadcasts to the city of Joplin and the surrounding area for the first time and changed the campus landscape.
Late 1980s to 1990s - Student programming continues, as well as programming for the Joplin community.
Sports programming expands to include St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals over-the-air baseball telecasts.
In addition, students have opportunities to interview players when they visit campus with caravan tours.
1995 – Call letters are changed to KGCS-LP
2008 – KGCS begins digital broadcasting on channel 22, thanks to generous financial support from Ruth I. Kolpin. The expanded broadcasts allow the station to reach more than 168,000 households in the region.
2019 - KGCS moves to digital channel 21, as part of the nationwide broadcast repack program.
Today - KGCS provides live telecasts of Missouri Southern home football and basketball games. Students also work on a variety of programs to serve the campus and community. Throughout its history, the station has remained committed to providing hands-on opportunities to students.
KGCS is celebrating 35 years of service in 2019.
Check the station Facebook page (Missouri Southern KGCS-TV) to keep in touch with other alumni as we salute everyone's accomplishments and keep everyone updated on station news and developments.
The station also has a YouTube channel featuring more current programming, "KGCS Missouri Southern."