Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have long sought opportunities to expose and educate the public about the unique contributions they have made to American society.
Among such efforts, Howard University has put the resources and the prestige of its popular campus radio station behind the launch of the HBCU Channel on the SiriusXM satellite radio network system. Since mid-November, the Howard University Radio Network, which includes WHUR 96.3, has operated the HBCU Channel on SiriusXM channel 142 to deliver a wide range of programming that showcases the Black college experience.
Howard University interim president Wayne A.I. Frederick described the newly-launched channel as an “excellent platform to showcase the extraordinary stories and success” of HBCUs. SiriusXM radio channels are available to more than 25 million subscribers.
“Howard University is excited to serve as the anchor for the HBCU Channel on SiriusXM … ” Frederick said in a statement. ”Our partnership with sister institutions on this groundbreaking effort reflects our continued commitment to collaboration and broadcasting excellence.”
Jay Holloway, the HBCU Channel director, says that seven schools are currently contributing programming to the new channel. Seventeen shows currently air on the channel, which broadcasts 24 hours daily. The shows range in content, including music and talk show formats that cover educational, cultural and entertainment topics. Besides Howard, the additional participating schools are American Baptist College, Hampton University, Jackson State University, Prairie View A&M University, Virginia State University and Tennessee State.
Faculty members and administrators from participating schools, including American Baptist College president Forrest Harris, serve as on-air program hosts. In addition to directing the new channel, Holloway hosts “President’s Desk,” a weekly program that features in-depth interviews with HBCU presidents. All of the channel’s programs are produced weekly, and they repeat three times a week, Holloway says.
