WHFR-FM Radio celebrates 40th anniversary with annual Radiothon
HFC’s student-run radio station WHFR-FM (89.3 FM) will hold its annual pledge drive, Radiothon 2025, from April 6-12 with a variety of special on-air events scheduled throughout the week.
Radiothon 2025 is special because it celebrates the 40th anniversary of WHFR, the College’s student-run, non-commercial, independent radio and internet broadcasting station.
HFC Media Communication Arts Chairperson and WHFR General Manager Susan McGraw has been the general manager since 1999. She is also an alumna of the College.
“For 40 years, WHFR has been powered by you – your passion, your generosity, and your belief in us!” said McGraw. “WHFR’s mission is a simple but powerful one, which is to bring independent, diverse, and locally curated programming to our community while educating and providing a creative outlet for our students and volunteers. Today, thanks to you, our dedicated listeners and donors, we’re still here, stronger than ever, living that mission every day.”
Providing original, eclectic music and programming since 1985
Founded December 20, 1985, WHFR has been providing local talk and original, eclectic musical programming from talented, creative, local independent artists rarely heard on the Metro Detroit radio dial. Known for its classical programming in the overnight hours, original musical styles from talented musicians, and great local talk, WHFR airs what many other stations do not.
“This milestone isn’t just about our station; it’s about you, the people who have kept us going!” said McGraw. “Your generosity has built WHFR. For four decades, your support has fueled independent, non-commercial broadcasting and helped generations of students gain hands-on experience. You’ve believed in the power of independent radio, championed new music, and supported voices that might not be heard anywhere else. Every song played, every interview aired, every connection made, all exist because of you. As we approach our official 40th anniversary, we want to celebrate this incredible journey with you through special programming and event surprises.”
Continued support from our community is essential
To keep the station operating, WHFR-FM needs to ask for listener support. They make this request only one week out of the year, and they call it Radiothon.
“We need your help to keep us going strong and allow our passionate student and volunteer staff to grow their skills and do what they love. We’re looking for your help to keep our efforts going strong,” said McGraw. “Every donation helps ensure another year of bold, commercial-free programming and student opportunities. This pledge drive is our primary source of funding to stay on the air.”
Please help WHFR-FM continue to provide this forum for learning and great radio by donating to WHFR during the Radiothon 2025 pledge drive. This annual fundraiser is the main way that WHFR acquires funding operate at the level that you expect and deserve, and offer this real-world forum for training. Since WHFR does not receive government funding, more than 60% of their budget comes from generous donors like you!
3 ways to donate to WHFR
There are three easy ways to donate to the radio station during Radiothon 2025:
- On-Air: The on-air portion of Radiothon 2025 is April 6-12 when our live DJs will be asking you to call in at (313) 845-9676 to make your tax-deductible donation via credit card or to request that a self-addressed envelope (SASE) be sent to you.
- Online: You can Donate securely online
- Mail: Download, fill out, and mail in the pledge form from the WHFR-FM website with your contribution at any time.
“You, our generous donors, play a vital role in the continued success of WHFR. We are committed to staying true to our mission with local, independent, eclectic programming and a forum for learning and creativity for our students and volunteers,” said McGraw. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of the WHFR family. Thank you for believing in independent, educational radio. Thank you for keeping us on the air for four decades. We look forward to celebrating with you as we enter our 40th year, and for many more to come!”
For questions or more information about Radiothon 2025, contact McGraw at 313-845-9842 or whfr@hfcc.edu.