Urban One’s Cathy Hughes Receives Key to Washington, D.C.
Urban One is celebrating a significant recognition for its founder, Cathy Hughes, who recently received the key to Washington, D.C. This honor marks a pivotal moment for Hughes, who has been a prominent figure in the city for over 55 years, advocating for Black voices and communities.
“I am always thinking in terms of what’s next,” Hughes remarked during an interview at Radio One’s offices. Her visionary approach has continually pushed her and her ventures forward, earning her a reputation as a pioneering force in media.
Hughes’ journey is marked by numerous groundbreaking achievements. She revolutionized FM radio with the Quiet Storm format and became the first Black woman to head a publicly traded company. Her leadership established Urban One as the largest Black-owned broadcast company in the U.S.
Her career began in Washington, D.C., at Howard University, working with Tony Brown on his influential public affairs program. Brown’s mentorship propelled her through various roles, eventually leading to the creation of the Quiet Storm format at WHUR, which quickly rose in popularity and revenue.
Information Is Power
In the 1980s, Hughes made her mark with live broadcasts from a picture window in D.C., engaging directly with the community. Her commitment to advocacy journalism aimed to provide a balanced portrayal of Black life in a city where media often failed to do so.
Hughes and her then-husband, Dewey Hughes, purchased WOL, outbidding notable contenders. Despite financial challenges and personal changes, Hughes dedicated herself to the station, often sleeping in her office to keep it running.
DJ Konan recalls Hughes’ efforts to engage the community during the challenging crack epidemic era, emphasizing her slogan, “information is power.” Her involvement extended to educational programs, promoting literacy among local children.
Hughes’ Legacy
Johnny “Porkchop” Doswell, a Radio One DJ, remembers Hughes as a nurturing leader who managed to inspire and connect personally with her staff. “She was the boss of a multimillion-dollar company, but I felt like I was talking to my mother,” he said.
Marc Clarke, a former DJ on Radio One, highlights Hughes’ impact, noting her role in creating opportunities for many influential radio personalities. Her leadership not only built a media empire but also fostered community connections and personal growth.
As Dyana Williams, a long-time friend and radio broadcaster, notes, Hughes’ legacy is defined by her trailblazing role as the first Black woman to lead a publicly traded company. However, as Porkchop aptly puts it, “We don’t know what her legacy is yet, because she’s not done yet.”
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Cathy Hughes Dedicates Key To Washington, D.C. To Urban One Employees
