ODU President Hosts Pre-Game Radio Segment
It's not every day that you come across a college president with journalism and broadcasting background. How about a president that hosts a segment on the college's football pre-game radio show? The chances of seeing that anywhere may be as rare as a UFO sighting.
John R. Broderick, Old Dominion University's newest president, brings more than 25 years of public relations and broadcasting experience to the post. After serving as acting president last year, Broderick was unanimously appointed to serve as president by the university's Board of Visitors in May.
Broderick's live, five-minute segment is featured in the first half hour of the pre-game radio show on WXEZ 94.1 FM in Hampton Roads, beginning one hour prior to kick-off. The segment will include guests from the community, as well as the student body and alumni, and will feature updates on the University.
"When I was approached with the idea, my first reaction was not to do it," Broderick said. "The more I though about it, however, the more I became intrigued. My goal will be to interview someone each game who will bring an interesting perspective to our listeners. "
His broadcasting experience includes high school football and minor league baseball radio and TV coverage in upstate New York and Connecticut, and sports writing correspondent stints with The Sporting News and the Associated Press.
Broderick has been recognized by many national groups for his communications experience, receiving the College Communicators Associate Distinguished Service Award and was a finalist for the national PR News' professional of the Year award.
"It is clear that President Broderick has the background and interest to be part of the pre-game show," says Brock Petrie, multimedia rights manager for CBS College Sports Properties, the rights holder for ODU's radio broadcasts. "We feel that his insight and ability to interview relevant guests will add significantly to the quality of the broadcast and that the fans and listeners will find this segment unique, entertaining and informative."
The pre-game show, hosted by Rick Kiefner, will air from the Charles Barker Field Pass Terrace one hour prior to kick-off.