Holy Cross Radio Station Celebrates 60 Years of Broadcast

Break out the streamers and balloons — Holy Cross’ student-run radio station, WCHC (88.1 FM), is celebrating its 60th anniversary this week.

A full week of events is scheduled to mark this milestone. Among the events, Rev. Michael C. McFarland, S.J., president, will re-bless the station, located in Hogan Room 216, on Dec. 5, and a 24-hour marathon broadcast will begin the day before.

A reception will follow the re-blessing of the station where Joe Shortsleeve ’79, WBZ-TV chief correspondent, will deliver a short speech about his time at the station. Live streaming video of the celebration will begin at 3 p.m. on Dec. 5.

Other alumni involved in the radio station are also invited, says station manager Deirdre Milionis ’10.

“If they are ever interested in returning to do an alumni show, they are always welcome!” she says. “We would also love to see them at the President’s re-blessing of the station and reception on Dec. 5.”

Self-proclaimed as “Worcester’s Only Alternative Source,” WCHC is one of Holy Cross’ oldest student organizations and, with approximately 70 student DJs, is still going strong.

“In an age when the radio is rarely listed to, WCHC has fostered a community that shares a passion for independent music, quality programming, and sports broadcasts,” says Milionis. “It is an important time to step back and remember all of those before us who have made WCHC what it is today. We are all so appreciative of their hard work and we can only hope to live up to their expectations.”

The station has changed with the times, explains Milionis. The station used to play top 40 hits, but now plays the more eclectic music found on the college music charts. News briefs were retired years ago as the focus shifted to playing commercial-free, independent music.

“Learning about the station’s history has made me feel that those who are involved with WCHC are part of something much bigger: a community,” she says.

To view a complete list of events, read the press release.

Listen to WCHC online.

Related Information:

• Photo Gallery: Looking Back on WCHC’s 60 Years on the Air • Read a profile of Joe Shortsleeve ’79 published on this site earlier this year