LABF Announces Board of Directors for 2025

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 8, 2025

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF)

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF) has welcomed four new members to its board of directors: Sam Bush, Heather Cohen, Mike McVay and Ernesto Mourelo. The additions were announced by Heidi Raphael, Chief Communications Officer at Beasley Media Group, and Jack Goodman, a Communications Attorney based in Washington DC, who co-chair the Foundation.

Bush, who currently holds the position of Executive VP, Treasurer and CFO at Saga Communications brings extensive experience in broadcast property management. Since joining Saga in 1997, Bush has been instrumental in guiding the company towards innovative revenue strategies, particularly in digital and e-commerce sectors. In addition to his corporate roles, Bush actively contributes to the community as Vice Chairman of the Gleaners Community Food Bank and has served as Chairman of the Media Financial Management Association.

Cohen, President of The Weiss Agency, has been recognized repeatedly as one of the "Most Influential Women in Radio" and is a fixture in broadcast talent management. Her previous roles include Vice President of Programming at Greenstone Media and Assistant Program Director at WOR New York. Cohen is also noted for her ongoing leadership within the Gracie Awards and the Broadcasters Foundation of America.

McVay, President of McVay Media Consulting, is celebrated for his over 40 years in media, where he has significantly impacted content creation, programming, and syndication. His achievements include launching numerous successful syndicated programs and his induction into the West Virginia Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2021. McVay is also an influential member of the Country Radio Broadcasters and a voting member of major country music associations.

Mourelo, as Vice President of Digital News at Hearst Television, oversees the company's digital content strategies and distribution, playing a pivotal role in shaping modern news delivery. His expertise in digital media is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the LABF Board.

The Co-Chairs expressed their excitement about the new appointments, highlighting the blend of leadership and expertise the new members bring to the Foundation. "Their incredible leadership and vast experience are exactly what we need to continue our mission of preserving, protecting, and promoting radio and television broadcasting's rich and incredible history," said Raphael and Goodman.

In addition to the new members, the Executive Committee saw the re-election of several members for additional terms, and Dave "Chachi" Denes was newly elected to the Committee. The LABF also confirmed new three-year terms for other notable board members, including Heather Birks and Mike Carter among others.

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation, housed at the University of Maryland, maintains the nation's largest collection of broadcast history, providing invaluable resources for the preservation of broadcasting heritage.