Connors joins Cumulus Columbia after more than 19 years with Alpha Media in Columbia, where he was Operations Manager for the six-station group. Prior to that, Connors was Program Director for WMMJ-FM in Lanham, MD, and was Program Director for WFXC and WFXK in Durham, NC. He holds a B.A. degree in Communications, Radio/Television, from Shaw University in Raleigh, NC, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC.
Tammy O’Dell, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Columbia, said: “I am very excited to have Chris join our team. His track record of success, his deep roots in the local community and his knowledge of the Columbia market make him a perfect fit for WLXC. “
Connors commented: “We’ve already made rating history in Columbia, and I’m very fortunate and extremely thankful to have the opportunity to do it again. Big thanks to John Dimick, Kenny Smoov and Tammy O’Dell for entrusting me to lead the Columbia team. No need to pack or move; we’re ready on day one. Make sure your arms and legs are tucked inside the ride and that your seatbelt is securely fastened. This thing is about to take off. Let the fun begin.”
With the addition of Telemundo; which focuses on reaching the Hispanic community, Radio One will continue to expand its footprint in Central Ohio. The acquisition of Bounce TV will deepen the company’s commitment to providing original music programming, talk shows, business news, movies, and culturally relevant content to the African American community.
“We are thrilled to add Bounce and Telemundo to our portfolio of stations in Columbus,” says Regional Vice President, Eddie Harrell, Jr. “With the addition of these powerful television networks, we have strengthened our position in the market and solidified our commitment to super-serve the minority communities of Central Ohio,” adds Harrell.
“We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to pass the torch of service to Radio One for the stewardship of WQMC in Columbus Ohio. Our station has faithfully served the needs of the African American community of Columbus with Bounce TV since its network sign-on in September 2011 and the Hispanic community with Telemundo since March of 2012. Both stations have developed deep roots and loyal viewers in Columbus over the years. Combined these communities represent approximately 38% of the Columbus market population. Radio One also has a rich and long history serving these communities in Columbus and so it’s a logical next step for all parties,” Richard C. Schilg, Chairman CEO Media Columbus.
These new additions will further cement Radio One as the predominant media entity in Central Ohio that reaches the African American and Hispanic communities