In honor of National Women’s History Month and the National Women’s History Project’s 2023 theme of “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories,” the Black Business Association (BBA) presented their 20th annual Salute to Black Women Business Conference, Vendor Faire & Awards Luncheon. As part of the event, radio personality Pat Prescott spoke to Dr. Moshe Lewis about her nearly 50-year career in radio and the importance of advocating for oneself.
Originally from Hampton, Virginia, Pat started her radio career in New Orleans before moving to New York City to host the midday show at WRVR, a heritage jazz station. She went on to work at several other New York stations, including WBLS, WLIB, The National Black News Network, and contemporary jazz station CD 101.9, during her 23 years in the city.
In 2001, Pat moved to Los Angeles to co-host the morning show at 94-7 The Wave with saxophonist Dave Koz, later taking over as the solo host. She is also the producer and host of Making Waves, the annual Black History Month tribute, and Justice Now, a 20-part social justice series. In 2022, Pat returned to the New York airwaves as host of My Favorite Things on WBGO.
Over the course of her career, Pat has been recognized for her contributions to the industry, winning R&R’s smooth jazz personality of the year for six consecutive years and receiving the prestigious Genii award from the Alliance of Women In Media in 2015. She is also an active member of her community and an in-demand voiceover artist.
Pat emphasized the importance of advocating for oneself in the industry, sharing that she has always been willing to ask for what she knows she is worth. She also spoke about the unique challenges facing women in radio, including the need to balance a strong on-air presence with the pressures of maintaining a personal life.
Through her work on the airwaves and in the community, Pat has been a trailblazer for women in radio and an inspiration to many. As we celebrate National Women’s History Month and the theme of “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories,” let us remember and honor the contributions of women like Pat who have helped shape the industry and the world.
Report by MOSHE LEWIS
