Syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner’s growing popularity is raising needed money for Black Colleges
He claims to be the “hardest working man in radio.” It is a routine
that has paid off handsomely for disc jockey/comedian Tom Joyner. In
recent months, he has begun to apply his charisma, wit, and skill to
the fund-raising efforts of historically Black colleges and
universities (HBCUs).
The syndicated “Tom Joyner Morning Show” is heard on the ABC Radio
Network weekday mornings on ninety-six stations nationwide and on the
Armed Forces Network. His listening audience is mostly Black, but the
show — which targets thirty-five to fifty-four-year-olds — is growing
in popularity among Whites.
In recent months, Joyner has helped several HBCUs to capitalize on
his increasing popularity by creating the Tom Joyner UNCF Black College
Funds. Each month a different school is chosen to receive the funds
raised by the foundation. Contributions have averaged about $25,000
each month.
To date, Joyner’s foundation has raised $125,000, according to Tom
“Killer” Joyner Jr., the radio star’s son and the foundation’s
administrator. This month, the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff became
the foundation’s eighth recipient. Meharry Medical College has been
designated for November’s award.
“We do it from the heart,” Joyner Sr. says. “I’m a product of an
HBCU school. My parents are products, my grandparents, and my sons.”
Joyner, a native of Tuskegee, Ala., graduated from Tuskegee
Institute (now Tuskegee University) with a degree in sociology. Killer
graduated from Howard. The younger son, Oscar “Thriller” Joyner, is an
alumnus of Florida A&M. Both sons travel on the road with their
father.
