Mike Sullivan
Mike Sullivan worked in almost every aspect of radio broadcasting from DJ to Station Manager during his 44-year career, but he is best known for his deep commitment to local news and sports in the Eau Claire market. His enthusiastic work on the air and behind the scenes was instrumental in the growth of sports radio broadcasting in Wisconsin. He called more than 3,600 local games in 30-plus states and, in 1992, turned WBIZ Radio in Eau Claire into the state’s first all-sports station. He also mentored many young announcers who went on to successful careers in other markets.
Sullivan attended Swarthmore College and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and he graduated from Brown Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He broke into broadcasting in 1971 as an overnight disc jockey at WMKC-FM in Oshkosh and, in 1974, joined the Eau Claire stations of what is now iHeartMedia. He worked as part of a Marconi Award-winning morning-show team at WBIZ-FM, where he was on-air for approximately 6,000 shows. As a reporter, he won several awards for documentaries and spot news coverage.
While I only had nine months working with Mike as my Sports Director (I was P.D,) in 1988-89 at Z100, it was immediately clear to me Mike’s dedication to the radio station, regardless of current ownership. He has been the rock–the foundation–for WBIZ (Z-100 and SportsRadio 1400) for so many years, and through many ownership and management changes. He truly has my respect.
Jay Bouley/Eau Claire, WI
Mike Sullivan is an amicable, brilliant and masterful broadcaster! His iconic voice is well known throughout the Chippewa Valley. His passion for verbally transmitting accurately graphic information during athletic competition is superb. His preparation and attention to detail is sublime. Mike is an exemplary radio communicator! But, beyond all his air wave accolades, he is a finer human being. Thank you “Miguel” for your dedication to the industry and your love of life!
Sully is a broadcast “legend” and a wonderful human being. Kind, considerate, brilliant with a keen sense of humor. I worked with him for 11 years at WBIZ in Eau Claire. What a “Pro” and great guy. Hall of Famer!!