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Washington, D.C., Jan. 22, 2001 – The Voice of America (VOA) and VOA listeners around the world will say goodbye to Judy Massa during her final broadcast as host of Border Crossings next Friday, Jan. 26.  After more than 37 years as America’s overseas voice, Judy Massa will hang up her hat as Music Director and host of two of VOA’s most popular music programs, Country Hits USA and Border Crossings.  Known around the world for her personal touch and ability to connect with listeners, Judy will continue her work as a musical ambassador to nations around the world and will pursue a career in performing artist management. 

Judy began her tenure at VOA as an intern during the Kennedy Administration during studies at DePauw University in Indiana.  After graduation, she returned to VOA as a Studio Director for Latin American radio broadcasts.  In 1984, Judy was named VOA’s first Music Director and host of VOA’s top country hits program, Country Music USA. In 1996, VOA’s audience was introduced to a new program, Border Crossings, a live music request and call-in show, created and hosted by Judy Massa. 

Over the past 20 years Judy has taken her passion for the power of music on visits to over 30 different countries.  Her trips have included traveling with artists Garth Brooks and Dan Seals and judging international musical competitions and festivals, and emceeing last year’s Fourth of July concert at the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam.  Judy also conceived and orchestrated an unprecedented musical event in honor of VOA’s 50th Anniversary in 1992.  The concert, held at the VOA Washington headquarters was co-hosted by Judy Massa and country artist Kenny Rogers, and featured such internationally-known talent as Garth Brooks, guitarist Chet Atkins, violinist Mark O’Connor, and the late saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr.  The concert was broadcast live on VOA airwaves. 

Listeners around the world have expressed their sadness at the news of Judy’s departure.
Their e-mails and letters are testament to her success as a broadcaster.  A listener from the Czech Republic wrote: “There aren’t many people like you in the world…I am glad that Border Crossings exists and I hope it will (continue) for a long time yet.”  And, from Nigeria: “Border Crossings has been a paragon to so many of us around the world, you’ve touched so many of us and created a family.”  Another listener in India said: “You have done a great job by putting Border Crossings on the air…believe me, Judy, no one will ever forget you.”

Contact: Joseph O’Connell
Phone:    202-619-2538