Urban One, Inc. has announced that Founder and Chairwoman Cathy Hughes has received Congressional commendations for Urban One’s 40th anniversary and its impact on the national media landscape.
Hughes received recognition from congressional leaders, the Honorable Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District of Columbia and the Honorable Chris Van Hollen of the State of Maryland for four decades of service. Hughes was also inducted into the Hall of Fame for the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ).
“Mr. President, I rise today to honor a tenacious, entrepreneur, visionary radio personality, and powerful advocate for the African American community, Cathy Hughes,” noted Senator Van Hollen, according to the press release. “This year, her pioneering radio company, Urban One, celebrated 40 years on the air. Cathy Hughes has left an indelible mark on the State of Maryland and inspired millions of listeners across the country.”
“In 1999, at the recommendation of her son, who had received his MBA at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Cathy Hughes became the first African American woman to chair a publically held corporation…” Holmes Norton included in her statement for the Congressional record. “I ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of Cathy Hughes on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Urban One.”
“I am deeply humbled by this prestigious recognition and grateful that Urban One’s contributions are now a part of our nation’s Congressional record,” said Hughes. “The year 2020 will long be remembered as a year that challenged and changed our country, and while we faced unprecedented trials, this honor and our opportunity to be of service to the black community are among the highest distinctions we have received.”
Senior correspondents and FOX NFL reporter Pam Oliver and Chicago Sun-Times columnist Mary Mitchell were also inducted into the NABJ Hall of fame.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Urban One has postponed plans to commemorate the 40-year anniversary with an event.
