WUPJ-TV has been absent this school year.

According to UPJ’s website, the mission of Pitt-Johnstown’s television station is to educate students specifically interested in broadcast journalism.

The station is supposed to produce a weekly news broadcast called the “Mountain Cat News.”

The station originated in the fall semester of 1998 and is said to have grown into a fully independent digital studio here on campus. Students involved in WUPJ-TV have gone on to professional broadcast jobs in Johnstown and Pittsburgh.

But this opportunity is nonexistent for UPJ students this year with few answers as to why.

Associate Professor Ako Inuzuka was the WUPJ-TV advier until she went on medical leave and Assistant Professor Susan Wieczorek took over fall 2011 semester.

Wieczorek advised WUPJ-TV until spring 2012 semester, when she also had to leave for a medical leave.

“I assumed when I left, (Inuzuka) resumed her position,” said Wieczorek. However, no one apparently was assigned to be advisor.

Inuzuka was away until this spring 2013 semester, when she returned to teach and was unable to comment on WUPJ-TV. According to Inuzuka, she is also trying to figure out what happened to the organization.

“I’m not sure what will happen next year,” said Inuzuka. “I do hope the station will be up and running again.”

Director of Student Life Sherri Rae said an officer roster was not submitted for WUPJ-TV this year. Rae said she had no up-to-date information regarding the group’s activities.

“It is a viable organization,” said Wieczorek. “It truly needs to be utilized.”

Pitt-Johnstown freshman Debra Cangiarella said she feels it would be beneficial to have the Mountain Cat News running again.

“I am interested in broadcast journalism,” said Cangiarella. “To see what it’s about, or even have an opportunity to be in the club and have hands-on experience would be awesome.”