Graduate Spotlight NAB Leadership Foundation

Graduate Spotlight: Sean Plater, WHUR, Broadcast Leadership Training Graduate (Class of 2017)

How have you used what you learned in the Broadcast Leadership Training program over the past couple of years?

Not a week goes by that I don’t experience something that was taught, discussed, or explored in the BLT class. I am extremely grateful for all that I’ve learned in BLT and for the connections that I was able to make. Just this past week, I have spoken to 4 BLT graduates about various things happening in the business. I often hear Diane’s voice as things come up that were shared in class. Teachings from BLT also have a way of trickling down and throughout our organization.

What would you say has been the key to your success in this industry?

My keys to success have been being a student of the business and being prepared when opportunity presented itself. I have also had incredible mentors and colleagues that have helped me along the way. The most important key is hard work. There is no shortcut to success.

How does WHUR partner with Howard to attract new talent to the industry?

WHUR partners with Howard University through our intensive internship program that host over 80 interns a year. Additionally, WHUR has adopted student-run station, WHBC and podcast station GlassHouseRadio.com. At WHBC, students are given the opportunity to run the station with their own staff (GM, PD, Sales, Production, Announcers, etc.). Their managers are trained throughout the year by WHUR managers in the same position. This program allows WHUR to help with developing the next generation of broadcasters in various disciplines.

What is your vision for ensuring that future generations tune in to WHUR?

I think it’s critical that we focus on meeting the needs of our audience in 2020. At WHUR, we believe in super serving our clients and listeners. We have ensured that we are available on every platform possible and also analyzing our content across all of our stations to ensure effectiveness. Our staff is challenged to remain innovative and creative as we expose future generations to WHUR. Additionally, we have embraced change and welcome future generations to experience the uniqueness of WHUR through radio, video, and social content. That willingness to adapt and evolve is what will sustain WHUR as one of the greatest radio stations in this country.

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