San Mateo native Claire Mack found her way into broadcasting after enrolling at the College of San Mateo. Mack’s quick wit, clear voice and outgoing personality, along with her KCSM training, made her a compelling on-air talent.
She found paid work at KGO radio and television while still a student at CSM. KGO hired Mack to do talk radio and a weekend public-affairs show and, when that job ended in 1971, Mack returned to KCSM. She also earned BAs in broadcasting and community development from Antioch College.
She would eventually work in various roles at KCSM radio and television for thirty years.
She served three terms on the San Mateo City Council and was elected the city’s first Black mayor.