KAB Announces 2024 Individual Award Recipients

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 29, 2024

Kansas Association of Broadcasters (KAB)

The Kansas Association of Broadcasters (KAB) has revealed its 2024 award recipients, recognizing eight distinguished broadcasters who have made significant contributions to the industry. These individuals will be honored at the upcoming KAB Convention, scheduled for October 20-21 in Wichita. The KAB will induct the following four new members into the Kansas Broadcasting Hall of Fame:

• Ben Bauman of Holton, KS, began his career in 1982 at KTWU and WIBW, eventually becoming a well-known news anchor and director. Bauman also held various public relations roles and continues his passion for broadcasting through his business, BBSideMedia.

• Greg Sharpe from Lincoln, NE, known as the "Voice of the Huskers" since 2008, previously served as the "Voice of the Wildcats" for Kansas State University. His career also includes a significant tenure as a sports anchor for WIBW TV in Topeka.

• Paul Heskett of Colby, KS, has spent nearly four decades at KXXX in northwest Kansas, where his "Bop Shop Saturday" show has become iconic. Heskett is deeply involved in community service and has been recognized with the KAB Sonny Slater Award for Service to Community and Station.

• Kyle Bauer of Clay Center, KS, co-owner of Taylor Communications, has expanded his broadcasting influence by purchasing additional stations across Kansas. Bauer has been recognized for his leadership and community involvement, including his work with the National Association of Farm Broadcasters.

The KAB will also recognize four other outstanding broadcasters:

• Penny Coy of KGGF Radio Group in Coffeyville, KS, will receive the Mike Oatman Award for Broadcast Sales Excellence. Coy has been a top performer at KGGF Radio Group, known for her professionalism and mentorship.

• Brandon Napier of Ad Astra Radio in Hutchinson, KS, will be honored with the Rising Star Radio Award. Napier, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, has played a crucial role in integrating new stations and improving operations. His career was inspired by his late father, Vernon Napier, and brother, Aaron Napier.

• Dave Grant of KAKE in Wichita, KS, will receive the Sonny Slater Award for Service to Station and Community. Grant, Assistant News Director at KAKE, has nearly four decades of experience in broadcasting and is known for his mentorship and community involvement.

The KAB, representing 259 full-power broadcast stations across Kansas, continues to honor the legacy and future of broadcasting in the state through these recognitions. For more information on the award criteria and past recipients, visit the KAB website.