WXOU to host alumni radio-thon to support brain cancer research
By Eric Reikowski, media relations assistant
Oakland University’s campus radio station is turning back the clock for a good cause. During the weekend of Saturday, March 31, through Sunday, April 1, 88.3 WXOU-FM will host an alumni radio-thon to support brain cancer research.
Proceeds will benefit the Chris Elliot Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending brain cancer through education, awareness, advocacy and research. The event will honor the memory of OU alumnus and former WXOU general manager Lee McPherson, who passed away from the disease in April 2011.
McPherson served as WXOU general manager in the mid-1990s during the station’s transition from AM to FM radio.
Tom Discenna, a longtime communication professor, worked closely with McPherson during this time and remembers the journalism graduate as a respected leader and friend.
“Lee occupied just about every position the radio station had,” Discenna said. “He had a way of bringing people into the station that was unmatched…he created a very inclusive environment.”
Discenna recalled that when McPherson graduated in December 1996 – ahead of the station’s official switch to FM – the succeeding manager stepped aside to allow McPherson the honor of guiding WXOU into a new era.
“I think that indicates the high level of respect that people had for Lee,” Discenna said. “It was certainly a jarring moment when I found out he had passed away.”
WXOU alumni, including friends and colleagues of McPherson, will return to the station to host their old shows during the two-day radio-thon. Live broadcasts will air from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., followed by pre-recorded shows overnight. Donations will be accepted via the station’s website at WXOU.org.
For additional information, contact WXOU at (248) 370-4273.
OU’s campus radio station will host an alumni radio-thon to support brain cancer research March 31- April 1, featuring radio show hosts of years gone by.
Created by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Monday, March 19, 2012 Modified by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Monday, March 19, 2012 Article Start Date: Monday, March 19, 2012
