Cathy Hughes, a pioneering figure in the broadcasting industry, began her career in the late 1960s as a public relations director for a small radio station in Nashville, Tennessee. Born into a family with a strong work ethic, Hughes’ ambition and determination were evident from an early age. She quickly moved up the ranks, becoming the first woman to own and operate a radio station in the United States when she purchased her first station, WOL-AM, in Washington D.C., in 1979.

Hughes’ fame began to grow as she transformed WOL-AM into a powerful voice for the African American community, focusing on issues that mattered most to its listeners. Her innovative programming and marketing strategies attracted a large, dedicated audience, making WOL-AM one of the most successful radio stations in the country. This success led to Hughes being recognized as a trailblazer in the broadcasting industry, paving the way for other women and minorities to follow in her footsteps.

Cathy Hughes’ Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Cathy Hughes’ net worth is estimated to be around $310 million, according to the latest available information.

Career

Cathy Hughes is a pioneering media executive known for founding Radio One, the first African-American owned radio station in the U.S. She began her career as a news announcer in the 1960s and rose through the ranks to become the first woman to own a radio station in Washington, D.C. In 1980, she founded Radio One, which grew to become the largest African-American owned and operated broadcast company in the U.S. Hughes served as the company’s Chairperson and Interim CEO until 2017.

Other Ventures

Beyond Radio One, Hughes has been involved in various other ventures. She co-founded TV One, a cable television network targeting African-American adults, in 2004. She also founded the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) in 1976, which aims to promote and preserve African-American ownership in broadcasting. Additionally, Hughes has been involved in philanthropic efforts, establishing the Cathy Hughes School of Communications at Howard University in 2006.

Assets

Hughes’ assets are primarily tied to her media empire. These include ownership stakes in Radio One and TV One, as well as real estate holdings. She also has a significant stake in the Baltimore-based media company, Radio Facts. Hughes’ personal residence is a luxurious home in Washington, D.C.

Annual Income

As of 2025, Cathy Hughes’ annual income is not publicly disclosed. However, as the majority owner of Radio One and TV One, her income would be largely derived from the profits and dividends from these companies. Her annual income would also include any speaking fees, consulting fees, or other entrepreneurial ventures she may be involved in.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Cathy Hughes

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cathy Hughes

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1. What is Cathy Hughes’ net worth?

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Cathy Hughes’ net worth is estimated to be around $310 million.

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2. How did Cathy Hughes make her money?

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Cathy Hughes made her fortune through her career in radio and television broadcasting. She is the founder and chairperson of Radio One, Inc., which is now known as Urban One. She also has significant investments in real estate and other businesses.

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3. When was Cathy Hughes born?

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Cathy Hughes was born on April 22, 1947.

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4. Where was Cathy Hughes born?

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Cathy Hughes was born in Omaha, Nebraska.

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5. What is Cathy Hughes’ background?

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Cathy Hughes graduated from Howard University with a degree in radio and television production. She started her career as a radio personality and later became the first black woman to own a radio station in the United States.

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6. What is Cathy Hughes’ husband’s name?

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Cathy Hughes’ husband is Vernon O. Roberts. They married in 1992.

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7. Does Cathy Hughes have any children?

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Yes, Cathy Hughes has two children, Alfred Liggins III and Jeannie Liggins.

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8. What are some of the awards Cathy Hughes has received?

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Cathy Hughes has received numerous awards, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Local/Community Programming, the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s Golden Mike Award, and the National Association of Black Journalists’ Lifetime Achievement Award.

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9. What is Cathy Hughes’ company, Urban One, known for?

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Urban One, formerly known as Radio One, is known for its urban contemporary radio stations and its TV network, TV One. The company also produces and distributes syndicated programming to radio stations and television outlets nationwide.

**10. What is Cathy Hughes’ philanthropic work?**

Cathy Hughes is involved in various philanthropic efforts. She has established the Cathy Hughes School of Communications at Howard University and the Cathy Hughes School of Business Entrepreneurship Center at her alma mater. She also supports numerous charities and community organizations.