Florida Broadcasters Announce Leadership Changes

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 2:47pm CT

Florida Association of Broadcasters (FAB)

The Florida Association of Broadcasters (FAB) has announced a series of leadership changes, including the appointment of a new Chairman and Chairman-Elect, the addition of an Executive Committee member, and several new members to its Board of Directors.

As part of the association's leadership succession plan, John Soapes, President and General Manager of Hearst Television's Orlando and Tampa operations, has assumed the role of Chairman. Jason Meder, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Radio in Tampa, has been named Chairman-Elect.

"I'm honored to serve as Chairman and to build on the tremendous work of Lara Kunkler, the Executive Committee, the FAB team, and this board," Soapes said. "Florida is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic states in the nation, and local broadcasters play an essential role in helping residents navigate that growth as trusted voices, first informers, and community partners."

FAB Executive Vice President and COO Heather Lomagistro and President and CEO Pat Roberts praised the appointments, noting that Soapes and Meder bring extensive experience and leadership to the association.

The association also named Carolyn Cassidy, Vice President and Regional General Manager for Salem Media, to its Executive Committee. Cassidy oversees Salem's operations in Columbus, Tampa, Orlando and Miami and serves on the company's senior leadership team.

Joining the FAB Board of Directors are Darren Moore, Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Officer of Cox Media Group Television and General Manager of its Orlando television operations, representing television; JC Campese, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Orlando, and Roger Holler, founder and owner of MARC Media Group, representing radio; and Ralph Renzi, Chief Executive Officer of Newsmax Radio & Audio, as an associate member.

"Carolyn, Darren, JC, Roger, and Ralph each bring deep experience and a real passion for this industry, and we're proud to have them helping guide FAB forward," Lomagistro said.

The association also recognized Adib Eden, one of its longest-serving board members, as he concludes his tenure on the Executive Committee. FAB President and CEO Pat Roberts credited Eden's years of service and leadership for helping shape the organization.

Meanwhile, Lara Kunkler, who served as FAB Chair during what the association described as a transformative period, will transition to the role of Immediate Past Chair and continue serving on the Executive Committee.