Stories

B.A. English, 1969 M.Ed Community & Counseling, 1970 M.A. English Literature, 1973

The Spirit of Radio: The Story of Rush and Women in Media

Meet Donna Halper, College of English‘69, College of Community and Counseling‘70, and College of English‘73! A remarkable trailblazer in the world of radio and music, Donna made Northeastern history in 1968 as the first female DJ of WRBB. One of Donna’s most significant contributions came in the early 1970s when she played a vital role in discovering the legendary rock band Rush. Recognizing their immense talent, Donna championed their music and gave them their initial airtime on US radio waves. Donna’s passion for music and broadcasting led her to work as a DJ across the United States, music director, radio consultant, and media historian. Learn more about how this future Massachusetts Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame Pioneer Award-winner utilized her experiences learned early-on at Northeastern to help shape her journey as a pioneer for women on the radio, and how she’s continuing to amplify the voices of women in media today.

Image courtesy of Lesley University