WQPT | About WQPT

Posted May 2010

In May 2010 WQPT's license was transferred from Black Hawk College to Western Illinois University.

The following Frequently Asked Questions may assist viewers in understanding how the transition may will affect them and the station.
If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us.

WQPT exists as:
—a provider of relevant, unduplicated public television programming;

—a convener, bringing together groups from throughout the region to focus on issues of common interest;

—a communications leader, pioneering the effective use of emerging technologies for the benefit of all citizens in our broadcast area;

—a resource for lifelong learning;

—an "electronic town hall";

—a provider of childhood learning resources to our schools, libraries, daycare providers, and families;

—a cultural showcase for and about the Quad City region.

Will I still be able to view WQPT on my television?

WQPT's signal will be broadcast as it has in the past. Nothing will change about how you receive WQPT's signal.

Where will WQPT's studio be located?

WQPT will have limited production facilities in our new office space at Crown Center. Our master control office and main production studio will be located at Fusion Communications in Davenport, Iowa via open-air signal, cable and satellite TV.

Where do I call if I have questions about WQPT?

Simply call, 309-764-2400.

Where do I find WQPT now?

Our new offices are located at 3800 Avenue of the Cities, Suite 101 in Moline. Eventually WQPT's permanent home will be at WIU's Riverfront Campus which broke ground in March 2010. WQPT's offices are slated for Phase Two of this project. WQPT plans to reside at the Crown Center office space for three to five years until our permanent home is constructed.

Will WQPT be offering more local programming?

Yes, we plan to offer more local programming. No other local broadcaster provides ongoing, in-depth coverage of local issues so it is important to expand on our public affairs programming. We're currently in discussion with local producers for a new program featuring the work of local independent film makers. WQPT is also hoping to expand our Get Movin' program dealing with healthy habits for children to help battle the obesity epidemic. Other collaborations and projects include creating a program that will provide information needed by our aging population.

How will my donation be used now?

Donations to WQPT will be used to support your local PBS station. Funding for WQPT provides support to produce local programs as well as air diverse public programming from national sources. In addition, in accordance with our mission of lifelong learning, we also provide educational programs and resources aimed at literacy and early childhood education for children and adults.

When you become a part of a state university, will you receive funding
from Western Illinois University?

No. While we will be a department within Western Illinois University, we will not receive any direct funding from the University. WQPT will continue to be self-sustaining. Support from viewers becomes even more important as we incur new expenses associated with creating more local programming, increasing our outreach efforts, leasing office space and expanding the variety of programming options offered to our community.

Will the acknowledgement of my donation look differently?

Because Western Illinois University is now WQPT's license holder and operator; our funds are administered through the Western Illinois University Foundation which is the charitable arm of WIU. All gifts made to WQPT will be used to support WQPT's outreach, education and programming efforts. WQPT's funds will be in a restricted account within the Western Illinois University Foundation.

How will credit card charges appear on my statement?
As WQPT or Western Illinois University?

Credit card charges will be processed daily by WQPT staff. The charge will appear on your statement as "Western Illinois Foundation." A letter thanking you for your contribution and confirming your designation to WQPT will be sent to you from the Western Illinois University Foundation.