Broadcast Excellence Awards
Commercial
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Somerset Collection Contest Winners, Light Up The Season Commercial
Credits: Alissa Lincoln
Best | WXYZ-TV
Somerset, Detroit Shoppe, & Detroit Historical Society Detroit Moments Compilation
Credits: Alissa Lincoln, Randy Lundquist, Elizabeth Hager, Nick Leix
Continuing Coverage
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Southwest Detroit Flooding
Credits: WXYZ News Team
Best | WXYZ-TV
Paying a Price
Credits: Ross Jones, Randy Lundquist, Johnny Sartin, Tim Kochenderfer
Feature Story
Merit | WXYZ-TV
8-year-old survivor of Splash pad shooting learning echolocation
Credits: Simon Shaykhet, Johnny Sartin Jr., Randy Lundquist
Best | WJBK-TV
The Karens
Credits: Lori Pinson
Investigative Story
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Lieutenant Furman
Credits: Ross Jones, Randy Lundquist, Johnny Sartin
Best | WDIV-TV
Inside Vista Maria
Credits: Erika Erickson
Marketing Materials & Promos
Merit | WXYZ-TV
WXYZ - One in a Million
Credits: Phil Wrobel, Katie Chupailo, Jeff Blevins, Joe Orban
Best | WXYZ-TV
7 News Detroit: Your Voices, Your Stories
Credits: Phil Wrobel, Katie Chupailo, Jeff Blevins, Joe Orban, Alicia McNeely
Meteorologist
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Meteorologist Marisa Woloszyn
Best | WDIV-TV
Ashlee Baracy
News Anchor
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Glenda Lewis
Best | WDIV-TV
Ty Steele
News Reporter
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Randy Wimbley
Best | WXYZ-TV
Simon Shaykhet
News Series
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Threats and Politics at the Road Commission
Credits: Heather Catallo, Johnny Sartin Jr., Randy Lundquist
Best | WXYZ-TV
Unprotected
Credits: Ross Jones, Randy Lundquist, Johnny Sartin, Ronnie Love
News Special
Merit | WDIV-TV
Edenville Dam disaster, 5 years later
Credits: Karen Drew, Justin DePrekel
Best | WDIV-TV
The Edmund Fitzgerald, 50 Years Later
Credits: Adam Spindler, Justin DePrekel, Hans Ihlenfeldt, Paul Snyder
OTT Content
Merit | WJBK-TV
Lori's Stories
Best | WDIV-TV
Tall Ships Arrive
Credits: Mary Burson, Nick Monacelli
Photojournalist
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Mike Glover
Best | WXYZ-TV
Jeffrey Lindblom
Special Interest Programming
Merit | WJBK-TV
Michigan EXCLUSIVE: 2 AG's on the Sheronne Moore Case - A Special Edition of The Pulse
Credits: Hilary Golston
Best | WXYZ-TV
The Big, Bright Light Show
Credits: Danielle Deasley, Glenda Lewis, Taylor Sharpe
Sports Feature or Series
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Prepping to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with one leg
Credits: Brad Galli
Best | WDIV-TV
Pop-A-Shot
Credits: Justin DePrekel, Hobie Artigue
Sportscast
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Little League Championship
Credits: Brad Galli
Best | WXYZ-TV
Tigers Advance to ALDS
Credits: Brad Galli
Breaking News Story
Merit | WJBK-TV
Snow Squalls Cause Crashes On I-75
Credits: Ingrid Kelley, Brett Dickie
Best | WXYZ-TV
Grand Blanc Twp. Church Shooting
Credits: WXYZ News Team
Digital Excellence
Merit | WDIV-TV
Grand Blanc Church Attack
Credits: Derick Hutchinson, Dane Kelly, Ty Steele, Priya Mann, Nick Monacelli, Erin Fleming
Best | WXYZ-TV
WXYZ-TV Digital 2025
Credits: WXYZ-TV Digital
Weathercast
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Weathercast Marisa Woloszyn
Credits: Marisa Woloszyn
Best | WDIV-TV
Unpacking Multiple Rounds of Impactful Weather
Credits: Ashlee Baracy
Newscast
Merit | WXYZ-TV
Flooded & Frozen: A Neighborhood Trapped
Credits: WXYZ News Team
Best | WDIV-TV
Local 4 News at 4: Grand Blanc Church Attack
Credits: Angel Delich, Ty Steele
Community Involvement
Merit | WDIV-TV
Go 4 It
Best | WXYZ-TV
WXYZ-TV
Credits: Mike Murri
Commercial
Merit | WOOD-TV
MVP Fitness
Credits: Jason Batts
Best | WXMI-TV
Lucky's & Weller "The Comeback"
Credits: Nate Ritter, Maxwell Boughton
Continuing Coverage
Merit | WOOD-TV
Todd Johnson: An Assault Victims Survival
Credits: Adriana Doria
Best | WOOD-TV
Bradford Gille and the Failure of the Mental Health System
Credits: Ken Kolker, Jeff Blakeman
Feature Story
Merit | WXMI-TV
Frosty Falls
Credits: Andy Curtis, Mike Powers
Best | WZZM-TV
Michael's Wind Phone
Credits: Riley Mack
Investigative Story
Merit | WOOD-TV
Bradford Gille and the Failure of the Mental Health System
Credits: Ken Kolker, Jeff Blakeman
Best | WOOD-TV
Sex Sting
Credits: Susan Samples
Marketing Materials & Promos
Merit | WXMI-TV
Super Bowl Rooster
Credits: Maxwell Boughton, Nate Ritter, Tyler Martin, Travis Henkaline
Best | WXMI-TV
Josh Berry In Your Neighborhood
Credits: Jacob de la Rosa, Nate Ritter
Meteorologist
Best | WXMI-TV
Kara James
News Anchor
Merit | WNEM-TV
Christine Winter
Best | WXMI-TV
Josh Berry
News Reporter
Merit | WOOD-TV
Ka'Tani Gouch
Best | WXMI-TV
Andy Curtis
News Series
Merit | WXMI-TV
SNAP Uncertainty
Best | WOOD-TV
Lethal Dose
Credits: Kyle Kuhns
News Special
Merit | WOOD-TV
Tormented Minds Broken System
Credits: Ken Kolker, Jeff Blakeman
Best | WZZM-TV
Losing Faith
Credits: Lauren Baker, Collin Callaway
OTT Content
Merit | WOOD-TV
Edmund Fitzgerald
Credits: Matt Jaworowski, Madalyn Buursma, Alex Pearl
Best | WZZM-TV
May 2025 Tornado Outbreak
Credits: Kayla Crandall, Blake Hansen, Amber Twardy, Kolton Woods, Julia Gorman
Photojournalist
Merit | WOOD-TV
Jeff Blakeman
Best | WJRT-TV
Eric Fletcher
Special Interest Programming
Merit | WZZM-TV
13 Takes The Field Special
Credits: Chris Bovia, Ken Ritz, Tanner Holbrook, Amber Twardy, Marc Dachtler
Best | WXMI-TV
Priced Out
Credits: Kit Kuhne, Josh Berry, Kallista Cory, Brian Farber, Isaac Gould, Samantha Mesa
Sports Feature or Series
Merit | WOOD-TV
Nick Baumgartner Made in Michigan
Credits: Jack Doles
Best | WXMI-TV
West Michigan Whitecaps Opening Day
Sportscast
Merit | WOOD-TV
News 8 Sports @ 6pm
Credits: Jack Doles
Best | WZZM-TV
13 On Your Sidelines: Week 6
Credits: Matt Gard, Jacob Seus, 13 On Your Sidelines Crew
Breaking News Story
Merit | WXMI-TV
May 15, 2025: Severe Weather Hits West Michigan
Best | WNEM-TV
Grand Blanc Church Tragedy
Credits: WNEM TV5 News Team
Digital Excellence
Merit | WOOD-TV
Schurr Trial Coverage
Credits: Phil Pinarski, John Hogan, Ken Kolker, Alex Pearl
Best | WZZM-TV
The Trial of Christopher Schurr
Credits: Riley Mack, Kayla Crandall, 13 On Your Side Digital Staff
Weathercast
Merit | WZZM-TV
March 14th: Summer-like to Winter-like Severe Weather
Credits: Blake Hansen
Best | WOOD-TV
Tracking Allendale Tornado
Credits: Blake Harms
Newscast
Merit | WJRT-TV
ABC-12 News at 11:00pm
Best | WNEM-TV
Grand Blanc Church Tragedy - 11pm News
Credits: Ben Clevenger, Hayden Elliott, Adam Young
Community Involvement
Merit | WOOD-TV
WOOD TV8 Community Involvement
Credits: WOOD TV8 Staff
Best | WJRT-TV
WJRT's 2025 Diaper Drive
Credits: Angie Hendershot, David Diffenderffer, Eric Fletcher, Jeremy Chaney, Tommy Brocklehurst
Commercial
Merit | WLNS-TV
Michigan Boat and Auto Show
Credits: WLNS Commercial Production team
Best | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
Little Traverse Bay Bands: Violence and Abuse
Credits: Morgan Burke-Beyers
Continuing Coverage
Merit | WILX-TV
Lue Yang's Return Home
Credits: News 10 Team
Best | WLNS-TV
Police Pepper Spray Controversy
Credits: WLNS News Team
Feature Story
Merit | WILX-TV
Angels in the Alley
Credits: Ann Emmerich, David C Jones
Best | WILX-TV
One Shining Moment
Credits: David Andrews, David C Jones
Investigative Story
Merit | WILX-TV
Schools on the Honor System
Credits: Ann Emmerich, David C Jones
Best | WLNS-TV
6 News Investigates: Pepper Spray Arrest
Credits: Todd Heywood, WLNS News Team
Marketing Materials & Promos
Merit | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
Beyond the Forecast Promo
Credits: Morgan Burke-Beyers
Best | WSYM-TV
Lions vs Packers Thanksgiving Day Promo
Credits: Mason Allen
Meteorologist
Merit | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
John Gross
Best | WLNS-TV
David Young
News Anchor
Merit | WILX-TV
Maureen Halliday
Best | WILX-TV
Seth Wells
News Reporter
Merit | WSYM-TV
Darius Udrys
Best | WSYM-TV
Danny Valle
News Series
Merit | WILX-TV
Make an Impact Series
Credits: David Andrews, David C Jones
Best | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
Unsolved
Credits: David Lyden, Josh Monroe
News Special
Merit | WSYM-TV
Rivalry Week
Credits: FOX 47 News Team
Best | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
The Last Voyage: Remembering the Edmund Fitzgerald
Credits: David Lyden, Josh Monroe
OTT Content
Merit | WILX-TV
News 10+ Streaming Experience
Credits: Kyle Beery, News 10 Digital Team
Best | WSYM-TV
On The Road
Credits: FOX 47 News Team
Photojournalist
Merit | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
Josh Monroe
Best | WILX-TV
David C Jones
Special Interest Programming
Merit | WILX-TV
A Title to Remember: Michigan State's Championship Journey
Credits: Fred Heumann, Tim Staudt, News 10 Team
Best | WLNS-TV
March to Glory
Credits: The 6 Sports Team
Sports Feature or Series
Merit | WILX-TV
One Shining Moment
Credits: David Andrews, David C Jones
Best | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
East Jordan Shoe Club Meets Amon-Ra St. Brown
Credits: Megan Huiskens, Josh Monroe
Sportscast
Merit | WLNS-TV
The 5th Quarter: High School Football District Championships
Credits: The 6 Sports Team
Best | WLNS-TV
The 5th Quarter: Boys Basketball District Final Edition
Credits: The 6 Sports Team
Breaking News Story
Merit | WSYM-TV
Akeos Family Returns Home
Credits: FOX 47 News Team
Best | WILX-TV
Bath Township Plane Crash
Credits: News 10 Team
Digital Excellence
Merit | WSYM-TV
FOX 47 Digital Excellence
Credits: FOX 47 News Team
Best | WILX-TV
News 10 Digital Excellence
Credits: Kyle Beery, News 10 Digital Team
Weathercast
Merit | WLNS-TV
Winter Storm Strikes
Credits: David Young
Best | WILX-TV
Morning Snow Impacts Traffic
Credits: Darrin Rockcole
Newscast
Merit | WWTV-TV/WWUP-TV
Ice Storm Newscast
Credits: 9&10 News
Best | WILX-TV
News 10 at 6, December 12th
Credits: Josh Blevins, David Andrews, Seth Wells, News 10 Team
Community Involvement
Merit | WSYM-TV
FOX 47 Community Involvement
Credits: FOX 47 News Team
Best | WILX-TV
News 10 Makes an Impact
Commercial
Merit | WLUC-TV
Hudson's - Reintroduction
Credits: Jake Lenderink
Best | WLUC-TV
Westman Precision - Bananas
Credits: Nick Terbrack
Continuing Coverage
Merit | WLUC-TV
Irish Child Abuse Case
Credits: Julia Seitz, Dan Groeneveld, Brady Meyer, TV6 News Team
Best | WLUC-TV
MQT Planned Parenthood Closure
Credits: Dan Groeneveld, Griffin Weinberg, Terese Ledy, TV6 News Team
Feature Story
Merit | WZMQ-TV
Bonifas Theater Fire
Credits: Lily Simmons
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
U.P. Native Shares Ties To Edmund Fitzgerald Research
Credits: Rebecca Bartelme, Burns Severson, Jaeden Tanguay, Zach Hopper
Investigative Story
Merit | WLUC-TV
TV6 Investigates: U.P. Border Security
Credits: Grace Blair
Best | WLUC-TV
TV6 Investigates: Fentanyl in Upper Michigan
Credits: Grace Blair, Terese Ledy
Marketing Materials & Promos
Merit | WLUC-TV
TV6 News Trailer
Credits: Tony Stagliano, Nick Terbrack, Jake Lenderink, Lance Carter
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
My UP News: Live at the UP200
Credits: Burns Severson, Rebecca Bartelme, Air Stassek
Meteorologist
Merit | WLUC-TV
Noel Navarro
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
Air Stassek
News Anchor
Merit | WLUC-TV
Molly Birch
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
Brianna MacLean
News Reporter
Merit | WZMQ-TV
Lily Simmons
Best | WLUC-TV
Griffin Weinberg
News Series
Merit | WLUC-TV
Edmund Fitzgerald 50th Anniversary
Credits: Dan Groeneveld, Terese Ledy, Ben Kouchnerkavich
Best | WLUC-TV
Suicide Loss Survivors: Finding a Path Forward
Credits: Elizabeth Peterson, Terese Ledy, TV 6 News Team
News Special
Merit | WLUC-TV
Her Sacrifice: The U.P. Women of Valor Honor Flight
Credits: Grace Blair, Jake Lenderink, Tony Stagliano
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
The Gales of November: Remembering the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Credits: Rebecca Bartelme, Burns Severson, Jaeden Tanguay, Zach Hopper
OTT Content
Merit | WLUC-TV
U.P. Stomping Grounds - Republic and Channing Barhop
Credits: Noel Navarro, Terese Ledy, Tony Stagliano
Best | WLUC-TV
U.P. Stomping Grounds - L'Anse Reservation Barhop
Credits: Noel Navarro, Terese Ledy, Tony Stagliano
Photojournalist
Merit | WLUC-TV
Robert Rosiak
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
Schyler Perkins
Special Interest Programming
Merit | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
My UP Weather: Color-Fall U.P.
Credits: Air Stassek, Tom Kippen, Zach Hopper, Jaeden Tanguay
Best | WLUC-TV
Upper Michigan Today - Calumet Theatre
Credits: Robert Rosiak, Tia Trudgeon
Sports Feature or Series
Merit | WLUC-TV
Marquette Blues Veterans Night
Credits: Kevin McNulty
Best | WLUC-TV
Football Safety
Credits: Kevin McNulty
Sportscast
Merit | WLUC-TV
Friday Night Fever: Menominee Football Review
Credits: Kevin McNulty, Keegan Cooper
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
The Fifth Down: Week 2
Credits: Jake Durant
Breaking News Story
Merit | WLUC-TV
MTU Housing Fire
Credits: Colin Jackson, TV6 News Team
Best | WLUC-TV
Kaye Street Fire
Credits: Julia Seitz, TV6 News Team
Digital Excellence
Merit | WLUC-TV
TV6 Digital
Credits: Terese Ledy, Megan Voorhees, MK DiVirgilio, Jennifer Perez, TV 6 News Team
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
My UP Now Digital Excellence
Credits: Alexandria Bournonville
Weathercast
Merit | WLUC-TV
Jennifer Perez - November 26, 2025
Credits: Jennifer Perez
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
Thanksgiving Eve 6 AM Weathercast
Credits: Air Stassek
Newscast
Merit | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
February 14, 2025 6 PM Newscast: UP200
Best | WLUC-TV
TV6 Morning News - November 27, 2025
Community Involvement
Merit | WLUC-TV
TV6 Community Involvement 2025
Credits: Tony Stagliano, Shannon Konoske
Best | WBKP-TV/WBUP-TV
My UP News: Community Matters
Breaking News Story
Best | WJR-AM
Shooting at Henry Ford Health
Credits: Kevin Dietz, Curtis Paul, Marie Osborne, Laura Hessen
Merit | WWJ-AM
Troy, Michigan Hospital Shooting
Credits: Pat Vitale, Jackie Paige, Mike Campbell, Charlie Langton, Taylor Dietz, Tim Pamplin
Continuing Coverage
Best | WJR-AM
The New American Pope
Credits: WJR Staff
Merit | WWJ-AM
Missing Person Case
Credits: Darrylin Horne
Feature Programming
Best | WJR-AM
Spotlight: From the Streets to the Bench
Credits: Lloyd Jackson
Merit | WJR-AM
Free Mobile Mammograms
Credits: Marie Osborne, Lauren Crocker
Feature Story
Best | WJR-AM
Riger Reviews It
Credits: Dave Riger, Mark Hollis, Danielle Mason, Rich Luzenski
Merit | WJR-AM
Spotlight: Cider Mill Special
Credits: Mike Parsons
Investigative Story
Best | WJR-AM
All In, Online, On the Hook
Credits: Marie Osborne
Merit | WJR-AM
Spotlight: State of Education
Credits: Lloyd Jackson, Angelique Power
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WJR-AM
Hidden in Plain Sight
Credits: Robert Livernois, Mark Blackwell
Merit | WWJ-AM
Michigan's Data Rush
Credits: Tim Pamplin
OTT Content
Best | WJR-AM
The Detroit Nine
Credits: Andrew Mullin, Nic Fardella, Curtis Paul
Play-By-Play Sports
Best | WJR-AM
Drive to the Game Trenton vs Southgate Anderson
Credits: Chris Renwick, Ray Templin, Dave Riger, WJR Staff, SportsCaster Media, LLC
Podcast Series
Best | WKQI-FM
Mojo's We Do(n't) Podcast
Credits: Mojo, Chelsea Carballo
Merit | WJR-AM
The Dave LewAllen Podcast
Regularly Scheduled Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WYCD-FM
The Rob and Holly Show
Credits: Holly Hutton, Rob Stone, Mark Hlavin
Merit | WJR-AM
Focus with Paul W. Smith
Credits: Paul W. Smith, Mike Parsons, Danielle Mason
Special Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WJR-AM
Daily Dose of Dietz
Merit | WWJ-AM
WWJ PM Drive Team Christmas Hour
Credits: Tony Ortiz, Tracey McCaskill, Tim Pamplin, Dan Jenkins
Sports Feature or Series
Best | WJR-AM
WJR's Lomas Brown Named Semifinalist for NFL Hall of Fame
Credits: Lomas Brown, Nick Lundberg
Merit | WJR-AM
SportsCaster
Credits: Johnny Kane, StartUp Nation
Sportscast
Best | WWJ-AM
AM Drive Sports
Credits: Brendan Schabath
Merit | WJR-AM
The Great Michigan Weekend Sports Update
Credits: Dave Riger, Jim Harper, Kam Carman
Station Promos
Best | WJR-AM
Paul W. Smith Gets Key to the City
Credits: Paul W. Smith, Mark Blackwell, Mike Parsons
Merit | WWJ-AM
WWJ Station Promos 2025
Credits: Brian Larsen
Commercial
Best | WWJ-AM
C4 ENERGY DRINK
Credits: WWJ Newsradio 950, Don Kowalewski, Brian Larsen
Merit | WJR-AM
Michigan Renaissance Festival
Credits: Rich Luzenski
Morning Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WNIC-FM
Jay Towers in the Morning
Credits: Jay Towers, Allyson Martinek, Chelsea Kivell
Merit | WKQI-FM
Mojo in the Morning
Credits: Mojo, Shannon, Kev, Anna Robb, Lydia, Bianca, Zack
Digital Excellence
Best | WWJ-AM
WWJ Digital and Social Media
Credits: WWJ Newsradio 950, Marisa Jenkins
Merit | WJR-AM
Detroit Rising - On Demand
Credits: Andrew Mullin, Nicholas Lundberg, Curtis Paul
Newscast
Best | WWJ-AM
12-5-25 Morning Newscast
Credits: Pat Vitale, Jackie Paige, Chris Fillar, Charlie Langton, Taylor Dietz, Beth Fisher
Merit | WWJ-AM
PM Drive Storm Newscast
Credits: Tony Ortiz, Tracey McCaskill, Dan Jenkins, Val Berry, Tim Pamplin
Community Involvement
Best | WNIC-FM
Jay's Juniors
Credits: Jay Towers, Cody Trombley, Chelsea Kivell, Allyson Martinek
Merit | WJR-AM
WJR Community Involvement
Credits: WJR Staff
Breaking News Story
Best | WSGW-AM
Attack on Grand Blanc Township Church
Credits: Michael Percha
Merit | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
GRPD Involved in Gunfire Exchange
Credits: Emma Olson
Continuing Coverage
Best | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
Schurr Trial Coverage
Credits: Emma Olson
Merit | WSGW-AM
Grand Blanc Township Church Attack
Credits: Michael Percha
Feature Programming
Best | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
West Michigan Weekend MSP Open The Door Campaign
Credits: Phil Tower
Merit | WJIM-AM
All-of-Us-Express Children's Theatre Presents The Nutcracker: A Radio Play
Credits: Audrey Tieman, Wendy Hart
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
Dr. Jim Applegate
Credits: Jim Applegate, Steve Kelly, Bret Bakita, Adam Arocho
OTT Content
Best | WJXQ-FM
Pet of the Week Livestreams
Credits: Span Bennett
Merit | WJXQ-FM
Q106 Unplugged
Credits: Terry Stevens
Play-By-Play Sports
Best | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
Grand Rapids Griffins at Iowa Overtime and Shootout
Credits: Bob Kaser, Shelbie Petrongelli
Merit | WMAX-FM
Cedar Springs vs East Grand Rapids Football
Credits: Bret Bakita, Buck Geno
Podcast Series
Best | WJXQ-FM
Warfighters United
Credits: Eric Calley, Span Bennett, Joanie Kilchermann
Merit | WHMI-FM
Interview With Mickey Stanley-WHMI News
Credits: Nik Rajkovic, Amanda Forrester
Regularly Scheduled Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WJIM-AM
Robyn Fralick Show Featuring Amy Terrian
Credits: Dalton Shetler, Robyn Fralick, Amy Terrian
Merit | WJXQ-FM
Scary Terry's Saturday Nightmare
Credits: Scary Terry, Metal Mandy
Special Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WHMI-FM
The Listening Room with Dan Martin
Credits: Dan Martin
Merit | WJXQ-FM
Big 40 Countdown
Credits: Terry Stevens
Sports Feature or Series
Best | WMAX-FM
High School Football Preview Show Ludington Football Coach
Credits: Bret Bakita, Jason Hutton
Merit | WSGW-AM
Detroit Lions Is This the Year
Credits: Charlie Rood, Jon Barry
Sportscast
Best | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
Bret Bakita Sports Report
Merit | WHMI-FM
Daily Sports Update
Credits: Lawton Lunce
Station Promos
Best | WJXQ-FM
September to Dismember
Credits: Terry Stevens, Kevin Conrad
Merit | WHMI-FM
Pick Your Present-Rapping Elves
Credits: Dion Clark
Commercial
Best | WJXQ-FM
Superior Color and Collision
Credits: Span Bennett
Merit | WITL-FM
Brent's Bugs
Credits: Steve Goff
Morning Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WITL-FM
The WITL Wake-Up Show with JR & Kristen
Credits: Jonathan Ruppel, Kristen Matthews
Merit | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
Morning Show 2025
Credits: Steve Kelly, Bret Bakita, Lauren Smith, Adam Arocho
Digital Excellence
Best | WLHT-FM
MIX 95.7 WLHT
Credits: Big Joe Pesh
Merit | WHMI-FM
The Morning Drive with Chuck & Madison
Credits: Chuck Edwards, Madison June
Newscast
Best | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
9/11/25 Newscast
Credits: Emma Olson
Merit | WOOD-AM/WOOD-FM
Griffins Newscast
Credits: Emma Olson
Community Involvement
Best | WLHT-FM
MIX 95.7 Community Involvement
Credits: Big Joe Pesh
Merit | WDZZ-FM
Z92.7 Flint's R&B and Throwbacks
Credits: Cody Welling, August Wallace
Breaking News Story
Best | WLEN-FM
Downtown Adrian Fire
Credits: Ian Wendt
Merit | WLEN-FM
US-223 Crash
Credits: Bryan Vish, Laura Rutkowski
Continuing Coverage
Best | WLEN-FM
No Kings Protest
Credits: Bryan Vish
Merit | WGFM-FM
Walmart Incident
Credits: David Barr
Feature Programming
Best | WLEN-FM
Phone Calls to Santa
Credits: Joe Johns, Mark Hyre
Merit | WLEN-FM
Wagging Wednesday
Credits: Joe Johns, Sasha Wilkerson
Feature Story
Best | WLEN-FM
Poverty Simulation
Credits: Bryan Vish
Merit | WLEN-FM
Fire Damage Demolition
Credits: Bryan Vish
Investigative Story
Best | WLEN-FM
Downtown Fire Follow-Up
Credits: Ian Wendt
Merit | WLEN-FM
HOPE Center Van
Credits: Ian Wendt
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WLEN-FM
Flock Cameras
Credits: Bryan Vish
OTT Content
Best | WGFM-FM
Elephant Ears: I HEARD Wrong
Credits: Brian "Cartman" Pfeifer
Merit | WQTE-FM
Pink on the Dial
Credits: Shannon Renee
Play-By-Play Sports
Best | WLEN-FM
John Koehn
Credits:
Merit | WLEN-FM
Ian Wendt & Shawn Witmer
Podcast Series
Best | WLEN-FM
Inside ProMedica
Credits: Kathy Williams
Merit | WLEN-FM
Community Conversation
Credits: Dale Gaertner
Regularly Scheduled Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WMKC-FM
Susan Melton
Merit | WLEN-FM
The Jo-Jo Show
Credits: Joe Johns
Special Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WKLT-FM
A re-imagined Christmas Carol
Credits: Terri Ray
Merit | WLEN-FM
Phone Calls to Santa
Credits: Joe Johns, Mark Hyre
Sports Feature or Series
Best | WLEN-FM
Friday Night Scoreboard
Credits: Laura Rutkowski
Sportscast
Best | WLEN-FM
Ian Wendt - Sportscast
Merit | WLEN-FM
Larry Hall - Sportscast
Station Promos
Best | WLEN-FM
Diamonds & Joy Promo
Credits: Joe Johns, Julie Koehn
Merit | WLEN-FM
Thank-A-Vet Promo
Credits: Joe Johns, Julie Koehn
Commercial
Best | WGFM-FM
Screams in the Dark
Credits: Paige Morgan, Brian "Cartman" Pfeifer, Shawn Sheldon
Merit | WKHM-AM
SUMMIT ORTHODONTICS - SPELLING BEE
Credits: Connor Dockery
Morning Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WLEN-FM
Mornings With Larry & Dale
Credits: Dale Gaertner, Larry Hall
Merit | WGFM-FM
Cartman in the Morning
Credits: Brian "Cartman" Pfeifer
Digital Excellence
Best | WGFM-FM
Rock 105 & 95.5
Credits: Sarah Dorow
Merit | WLEN-FM
WLEN 2025
Credits: WLEN Crew
Newscast
Best | WLEN-FM
Ian Wendt - Noon News
Merit | WLEN-FM
Dale Gaertner - Noon News
Community Involvement
Best | WLEN-FM
Report to the Community 2025
Credits: Joe Johns, Bryan Vish
Merit | WGFM-FM
Rock 105 & 95.5
Credits: Brian "Cartman" Pfeifer, Guy Larrivee
Breaking News Story
Best | WKQS-FM
Motorcycle Accident
Credits: Walt Lindala
Merit | WGKL-FM
House of Ludington on Fire
Credits: Caleb Gordon
Continuing Coverage
Best | WKQS-FM
NMU Presidential Changes
Credits: Walt Lindala
Merit | WGHN-FM
Dredging Delays
Credits: Mary Ellen Murphy
Feature Programming
Best | WKQS-FM
Barry MacGregor Twas The Night Before Christmas
Credits: Mark Evans, Walt Lindala
Merit | WGKL-FM
Edmund Fitzgerald 50th Anniversary Tribute
Credits: Mike Daniels, Tom Kippen
Feature Story
Best | WGKL-FM
Escanaba Man Finishes Epic Journey
Credits: Jack Hall
Merit | WKQS-FM
Make Believe Spurs New Album
Credits: Walt Lindala
Investigative Story
Best | WGKL-FM
Series of Escanaba fires
Credits: Jack Hall, Tom Hill, Don Curran, Caleb Gordon
Merit | WKQS-FM
Senator Ed McBroom On Lawmaker Shooting 06-16-25
Credits: Walt Lindala
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WGKL-FM
Bay College Norse Sports Minute
Credits: Jack Hall
Merit | WUPT-FM
What's New at NMU
Credits: Caleb Gordon
OTT Content
Best | WUPT-FM
Negaunee Boys Win State Championship
Credits: Jack Hall
Merit | WGKL-FM
Eskymos Dedicate Newly-Remodeled Football Bleachers
Credits: Jack Hall
Play-By-Play Sports
Best | WLEW-FM
MHSAA Division 03 Basketball Regional Championship: Flint New Standard 64, Harbor Beach 56
Credits: Clark Ramsey, Mark Gainforth, Kendall Anthes
Merit | WRUP-FM
Hematite Friday Night 01-10-25
Credits: Tyler Young, Bob Nadeau
Podcast Series
Best | WKQS-FM
Lake Superior Podcast
Credits: Walt Lindala, Frida Waara
Merit | WUPT-FM
NMU Sports Interviews
Credits: Casey Ford
Regularly Scheduled Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WGHN-FM
The Wine Guy with Zach Filkins of One Republic
Credits: Jesse Bruce, Jeff Kretschmar, Zach Filkins
Merit | WKQS-FM
The 8th Day With Todd Pazz
Credits: Todd Pasanen
Special Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WFXD-FM
Adam Carpenter's Night Before Opening Day
Credits:
Merit | WGKL-FM
Edmund Fitzgerald 50th Anniversary Tribute
Credits: Mike Daniels, Tom Kippen
Sports Feature or Series
Best | WGKL-FM
Bay College Norse Sports Minute
Credits: Jack Hall
Merit | WUPS-FM
2025 Au Sable River Canoe Marathon
Credits: Larry Roberts, Tammy Thompson, Steve Claussen, Sarah Dorow
Sportscast
Best | WGKL-FM
Local Sports 6-12-2025
Credits: Jack Hall, Casey Ford
Merit | WUPT-FM
Local Sports 12-26-2025
Credits: Casey Ford
Station Promos
Best | WUPT-FM
100.3 The Point Imaging
Credits: Tommy Kay
Merit | WQON-FM
Imaging Montage
Credits: Jomarie Leone, Jeff Bihlman
Commercial
Best | WGHN-FM
Quality Vacuum 2025 Campaign
Credits: Mike Toth, Jesse Bruce
Merit | WCFX-FM
CMU - Student Employment Services
Credits: Angie Evans
Morning Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | WCFX-FM
The Breakfast Flakes
Credits: Kent Bergstrom, Rob Ryan
Merit | WKQS-FM
Mark & Walt In The Morning
Credits: Mark Evans, Walt Lindala
Digital Excellence
Best | WKQS-FM
mediaBrew Communications
Credits: Adam Rifenburgh
Merit | WUPS-FM
98.5 UPS
Credits: Sarah Dorow
Newscast
Best | WGHN-FM
Morning News March 7, 2025
Credits: Mary Ellen Murphy
Merit | WKQS-FM
Noon News May 3, 2025
Credits: Walt Lindala
Community Involvement
Best | WUPT-FM
Marquette Area Community Involvement
Credits: Casey Ford, Jay Fisher, Caleb Gordon, Jesse Huff
Merit | WCFX-FM
95.3 CFX Community Involvement
Credits: Kent Bergstrom, Angie Evans
Play-By-Play Sports
Best | Spartan Sports Network
Michigan State at Michigan 02-21-25
Credits: Will Tieman, Kevin Pauga, Zach Surdenik
Podcast Series
Best | Spartan Sports Network
The Sports Life - Terry Wymer
Credits: Will Tieman, Dalton Shetler
Regularly Scheduled Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | Spartan Sports Network
The Sports Life
Credits: Will Tieman, Dalton Shetler
Special Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | Spartan Sports Network
Tom Izzo Christmas Show 12-17-25
Credits: Spartan Media Network
Sports Feature or Series
Best | Spartan Sports Network
The Sports Life - Hoosier The Bison with Jeremy Gray
Credits: Dalton Shetler, Will Tieman
Digital Excellence
Best | Spartan Sports Network
Digital Excellence 2025
Credits: Dalton Shetler, Wendy Hart, Team Spartan Media Network
Morning Show Broadcast Personality or Team
Best | Michigan's Big Show
Michigan's Big Show starring Michael Patrick Shiels
Feature/Use of Medium
Best | WMUK-FM
The Timid Rabbit is Saying Farewell to Kalamazoo
Credits: Anna Spidel
Merit | WMUK-FM
Why's That: Why is there a runway sign in this Portage driveway?
Credits: Leona Larson
Hard News & Current Events Story
Best | WMUK-FM
One year later, Pavilion Estates tornado victims continue to face hardship
Credits: Michael Symonds
Merit | WEMU-FM
Wildfire Breathing Risk
Credits: Caroline MacGregor
Marketing Materials & Promos
Best | WEMU-FM
WEMU's 60th Anniversary
Credits: Molly Motherwell, David Fair
Music Feature or Special
Best | WNMU-FM
Holiday "Jazz Showcase," Not your typical Christmas Show
Credits: Anna Tousley
Merit | WEMU-FM
The In Crowd 1965 Feature
Credits: Jessica Webster
Musical Programming
Best | WEMU-FM
The Roots Music Project
Credits: Jeremy Baldwin
Merit | WEMU-FM
The Song Break
Credits: John Bommarito
Special Interest & Cultural Programming
Best | WEMU-FM
Jazz Appreciation Month
Credits: Molly Motherwell, John Bommarito
Merit | WNMU-FM
Windmill Music
Credits: Kurt Hauswirth
Spot News
Best | WMUK-FM
Businesses hurry to keep food cold as storms knock out power
Credits: Sehvilla Mann
Merit | WMUK-FM
'A balm for your soul': Comstock ukulele group lifts spirits through music
Credits: Michael Symonds
Use of Multiplatform Media – Programming Materials
Best | WEMU-FM
New at 2:00 with Michael Jewett
Credits: Michael Jewett, John Bommarito
Merit | WEMU-FM
Promotion of The Groove Yard
Credits: Daniel Long
Membership Appeal
Best | WEMU-FM
Pint Glass Premium Pitch
Credits: Nik Thompson
Merit | WEMU-FM
WEMU Hoodie Premium
Credits: Josh Hakala
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WMUK-FM
'Nothing but problems': Confronting the living conditions at Fox Ridge Apartments
Credits: Jessi Phillips
Merit | WEMU-FM
Issues of the Environment
Credits: David Fair
Community Involvement
Best | WEMU-FM
WEMU's 60th Anniversary
Credits: Molly Motherwell, David Fair
Merit | WEMU-FM
Black History Moments
Credits: Molly Motherwell, John Bommarito
Feature/Use of Medium
Best | Michigan Public
Better Access to Local Produce Helps People at Risk for Chronic Disease
Credits: Doug Tribou
Merit | Michigan Public
Fitted for a prosthetic leg in Flint, a boy from Gaza can chase his dreams again
Credits: Beenish Ahmed
Hard News & Current Events Story
Best | WKAR-FM
I've Called Shelter After Shelter
Credits: Maxwell Howard
Merit | Michigan Public
Record number of MI kids reported hospitalized from cannabis in 2024
Credits: Kate Wells
Marketing Materials & Promos
Best | Michigan Public
On Hand promos
Credits: On Hand Production Team
Merit | WDET-FM
WDET Music Show Promo 2
Credits: Sam Beaubien, Conor Anderson, Jose Llanes, Nate Bender
Music Feature or Special
Best | Michigan Public
Why is Kalamazoo in so many songs?
Credits: On Hand Production Team
Merit | Michigan Public
Where Does Detroit Rank as a Destination for Music Lovers?
Credits: Christopher Johnson
Musical Programming
Best | WKAR-FM
90.5 Classical
Credits: Jamie Paisley
Merit | WDET-FM
The Detroit Move
Credits: Mike Latulippe
News Special or Public Affairs Program
Best | Michigan Public
On Hand Special
Credits: On Hand Production Team
Merit | Michigan Public
The Dish Special
Credits: The Dish Production Team
Newscast
Best | Michigan Public
July 15th, 2025
Credits: Rebecca Hector, Michigan Public Newsroom
Merit | Michigan Public
March 14th, 2025
Credits: Doug Tribou, Michigan Public Newsroom
Special Interest & Cultural Programming
Best | WDET-FM
Detroit to Gloryland
Credits: Sascha Raiyn
Merit | WDET-FM
Container on the Metro
Credits: Tia Graham, Conor Anderson, Jose Llanes, David Leins
Spot News
Best | Michigan Public
Grand Blanc residents mourn deadly attack on Mormon chapel
Credits: Steve Carmody, Norman Duffy
Merit | WKAR-FM
17-Minute Police Body Cam Video Released After Officer-Involved Shooting, Home Invasions
Credits: Melorie Begay
Use of Multiplatform Media – Programming Materials
Best | Michigan Public
The Dish: Podcast, Instagram & TikTok
Credits: Ronia Cabansag, Mercedes Mejia
Merit | WDET-FM
Container on the Metro
Credits: Tia Graham, Conor Anderson, Jose Llanes, David Leins
Use of Multiplatform Media – Promotional/Membership Materials
Best | WDET-FM
Coney Dog
Credits: Ryan Patrick Hooper, Conor Anderson, Sophia Jozwiak, Jose Llanas
Merit | WDET-FM
Trust fall
Credits: Ryan Patrick Hooper, Cary Junior II, Sophia Jozwiak
Membership Appeal
Best | WDET-FM
Fall OAF 2025 - The Boulevard
Credits: Sam Beaubien, Wajeed
Merit | WDET-FM
Fall OAF 2025 - Protest
Credits: Sam Beaubien, Russ McNamara
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WDET-FM
CuriosiD
Credits: WDET News
Merit | WKAR-FM
Michigan's Mall Meltdown and the Fight to Save Retail
Credits: Anish Topiwala, Ed Coury, Sophia Saliby, Andrew Gillfillan
Community Involvement
Best | Michigan Public
Meals for Michigan Hunger Challenge
Merit | WDET-FM
Citizen Vox Project
Credits: WDET News
Cultural & Performing Arts
Best | WGVU-TV
The Go Rounds - Live at Sounds of the Zoo
Credits: Alan Helzer, Zach Liniewski, Spencer Irvine, Collin Membiela
Merit | WGVU-TV
Hope College Christmas Vespers 2025
Credits: Zach Liniewski, Melina Talentino, Spencer Irvine, Collin Membiela
Cultural Programming
Best | WGVU-TV
Living West Michigan - Step Up Your Dance Game at Over the Top Academy of Dance
Credits: Spencer Irvine, Jennifer Moss, Melina Talentino, Collin Membiela
Merit | WGVU-TV
Living West Michigan - The Buzz About Black Queen Bee
Credits: Collin Membiela, Jennifer Moss, Melina Talentino, Spencer Irvine
Marketing Materials & Promos
Best | WKAR-TV
The Story of Curious Crew
Merit | WKAR-TV
WKAR Is For You
News or Public Affairs Special
Best | WKAR-TV
The Blanchard Forum: Tom Izzo
Credits:
Merit | WKAR-TV
Off the Record
Special Interest
Best | WKAR-TV
WKAR Community Impact Forum
Merit | WGVU-TV
Living West Michigan - The Legend of the Michigan Dogman
Credits: Spencer Irvine, Collin Membiela
Sports – Outdoor or Recreation
Best | WKAR-TV
Beyond the Score Season 2
Credits: Al Martin, Dan Wogan
Merit | WGVU-TV
Living West Michigan - Leap of a Lifetime: This is Skydive Grand Haven
Credits: Chase Boshoven, Zach Liniewski, Spencer Irvine
Use of Multi-Platform Media – Long Form
Best | WDCQ-TV
KID CIVICS
Credits: Robert Przybylski, Lisa Lawrason, Kamryn Lawrason
Use of Multi-Platform Media – Short Form
Best | WKAR-TV
I Feel
Credits:
Merit | WKAR-TV
Off the Record YouTube Shorts
Membership Appeal
Best | WKAR-TV
2025 Giving Tuesday
Merit | WKAR-TV
Your Voices Matter, Impact Spot
Mini-Documentary or Series
Best | WKAR-TV
Curious About Careers Season 9
Merit | WGVU-TV
Living West Michigan - Contemplating the Cosmos
Credits: Alan Helzer, Zach Liniewski
Community Involvement
Best | WCMU-TV
WCMU in the Community
Credits: Renee Mahon, Madelene Armentrout, Matthew Ozanich
Merit | WKAR-TV
WKAR Community Involvement 2025
Reigning Commercial Radio Stations of the Year
Market 1
Market 2
Market 3
Market 4
Reigning Public Media Stations of the Year
Public Radio Group 1
Public Radio Group 2
Public Television
Reigning Commercial Television Stations of the Year
Market 1
Market 2
Market 3
Market 4
Public Radio & Television Winners and Finalists
Commercial & Network Radio Winners and Finalists
Commercial Television Winners and Finalists
Gala Sponsors
Categories
Entries & Eligibility
- This competition is open to all commercial stations, public stations and statewide broadcasting networks based in Michigan.
- Public radio and television stations are defined as stations licensed to operate as a non-commercial broadcasting stations with primary studios and FCC authorized broadcast operations in Michigan and the applicable minimum qualifications for Community Service Grants, as adjusted from time to time.
- To qualify for entry in the Statewide Broadcasting Network division, entrants must be Michigan-based producers of network and syndicated programming. Entries must be aired on at least two MAB member stations in different markets. Entrants with AM stations using FM translators do not qualify as statewide broadcasting networks.
- Digital sub-stations must enter under their own separate digital sub-station call letters and cannot be combined with the primary station’s entries unless the entry aired on both stations. Please note all digital television sub-stations are
included in the list of stations in the online entry system. All primary station call letters will retain -TV at the end of their call letters. (i.e.: XXXX-TV, XXXX-DT2, XXXX-DT3 or XXXX-DT4). - Entries must have been created, produced, and aired by the entrant’s station (excluding Commercial Television and Commercial Radio Community Involvement, Digital Excellence, and OTT Content, and Commercial Radio Podcast Series, which do not need to be aired on traditional broadcast channels).
- Entries may not be produced with outside advertising or production agency equipment, assistance, or direction (excluding the Public Television, Independent Producer category). Stations must disclose if an entry has been created using non-station voiceover talent. Please include this disclosure in the written summary field of the submission form.
- Awards are given to an individual station, not to individual talent. All entrants must identify themselves by using one set of station call letters unless the group of call letters are COMPLETELY simulcast.
- Public radio and television entries must be at least 51% locally produced. Public programs distributed throughout the state may be entered by the originating station only.
- Entries are limited to three per station in each category except for
- Commercial Television & Radio Community Involvement (1 entry per station)
- Commercial Television & Radio Digital Excellence (1 entry per station)
- Public Radio & Television Station Excellence (1 entry per station)
- Commercial Television Meteorologist (5 entries per station)
- Commercial Television News Reporter (5 entries per station)
- Commercial Television News Anchor (5 entries per station)
- Commercial Television Photojournalist (5 entries per station)
- All entries must be submitted using the online entry system. Hard copies will not be accepted.
- All Entries must first be uploaded to an external hosting site before they can be submitted to the online entry system. Below are some suggested sites. It is the responsibility of the station to make certain the link is operational on Better BNC through the end of May 2026. No refunds will be issued for links that do not open. NOTE: Analytics from online hosting sites may not be accurate. Additional fees and restrictions may apply to outside sites, please see each site for details.
- Soundcloud
- Vimeo
- YouTube
- Google Drive
- All entry fees are non-refundable unless determined otherwise by the MAB Awards Committee.
- Entries may not include pre-roles or any advertisements and may not exceed more than one hour in length unless otherwise specified.
- All submissions must include required materials outlined in the category description (e.g., video/audio files, written summaries, supporting documents).
- Entries without payment, incomplete entry information, missing attachments, or links that are not operational by the due date will be disqualified from the competition.
- Entries that exceed time limits, or written comment word count limits, may be disqualified at the discretion of the judges.
- Entries must be created in whole by employees working at the entrant's station. Entries created in whole or in part with the use of generative artificial intelligence will not be accepted.
- Disputes, of any kind, about this program will be reviewed by the MAB Awards Committee.
Deadlines
All entries must have been produced and distributed during the 2025 calendar year from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.
- Entries must be submitted online by Thursday, January 29, 2026 by 12:00 p.m. EST
- NEW! Winners and finalists will be notified by late March 2026. Stations of the Year will be announced during the Broadcast Excellence Awards Gala in Detroit on May 16, 2026. Winning stations will be given complimentary tickets to the Awards Gala based on the scale below
- 1-3 Best or Merit wins: 2 free tickets
- 4-10 Best or Merit wins: 4 free tickets
- 11+ Best or Merit wins: 6 free tickets
- Entry fees are $50 per entry for MAB and MAPB members; Non-member rate is $95 per entry. Online payments must be made before the close of the online entry system at 12:00 p.m. (noon) EST, January 29, 2026.
- If paying by check, please send an email indicating your intention to pay by check and the amount that will be paid to awards@michmab.com. Credit card payments must be made online before the system closes. Check payments must be received no later than the close of business on January 29, 2026 or the entries will not be submitted for judging. All fees for each station may be paid in one or multiple transactions.
- Points of Excellence Discount: Stations participating in the MAB’s Points of Excellence program may be eligible to receive discounts on their Broadcast Excellence Award entry fees. The MAB will contact contest administrators in early December 2025 to confirm the total points accumulated and provide instructions on how to apply any discounts earned. Please do not submit payment for entries until this discussion has taken place.
- Judging will be conducted by broadcasting peers outside the state of Michigan using the same online system the MAB uses for entry.
- An award will be given in each category unless, in the opinion of the judges, no award is deserved. Judges will be provided with each category description and time requirements. Points awarded, and final award placement, is completely at the judges’ discretion and their decision is final. Please note: all judges will be requested to view or listen to at least 50% of each entry before making any judgments.
- Commercial Station of the Year Awards:
Points for Station of the Year will be calculated as follows:- Best Award = 10 points
- Merit Award = 5 points
- 10 additional points per winning entry (both Best and Merit) will be awarded in the following weighted categories:
Commercial Radio
- Commercial
- Community Involvement
- Digital Excellence
- Newscast
- Personality*
*Stations may enter any of the listed Personality categories. If a station wins Best or Merit in more than one Personality category, the highest points won in any of the Personality categories will be applied to the Station of the Year competition.
Commercial Television
- Breaking News Story
- Community Involvement
- Digital Excellence
- Newscast
- Weathercast
- Public Radio & Television Station of the Year Awards: Points for Station of the Year will be calculated as follows:
- Best Award = 10 points
- Merit Award = 5 points
- Station Excellence = 60 points (both Best and Merit)
For a station to be eligible for Station of the Year they must have entered the Station Excellence category.
- Tie Breaker: In the event of a tie for both commercial and public stations, the station with the most Best awards will be awarded Station of the Year. If a tie remains, the station who placed highest in the Community Involvement category will be awarded Station of the Year.
Commercial Radio
Market 1: Detroit Metro Area
Market 2: Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Flint, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, & Tri-Cities
Market 3: Adrian, Cadillac, Jackson, Port Huron, & Traverse City
Market 4: Alpena, Escanaba, Marquette, & Others
Commercial Television
Market 1: Detroit Metro Area
Market 2: Flint, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, & Tri-Cities
Market 3: Cadillac, Jackson, Lansing, & Traverse City
Market 4: Alpena, Escanaba, Marquette, & Others
Statewide Broadcasting Networks
Radio
Television
NEW! To qualify for entry in the Statewide Broadcasting Network division, entrants must be Michigan-based producers of network and syndicated programming. Entries must be aired on at least two MAB member stations in different markets. Entrants with AM stations using FM translators do not qualify as statewide broadcasting networks.
Public Radio
Group 1: Public radio stations with a $2 million budget or less.
Group 2: Public radio stations with more than a $2 million budget.
Public Television
All public television stations will compete in one public television division.
2025 Broadcast Excellence Awards, Commercial & Network Radio Categories
Please respect the time limits for each category. Judges will be asked to stop listening to entries at the time limit.
- BREAKING NEWS STORY
A series of reports on initial coverage of a breaking or “unplanned” news event (including storm coverage), branded as “Breaking News,” under immediate deadline, and within 24 hours of the breaking news event (Extended, in-depth coverage should be submitted in the Continuing Coverage Category). National or international stories must include a local/Michigan angle.
Entries should include a series of reports edited into a single compilation that is no more than 20 minutes in length and may also include an up to 200-word description.
Criteria: Manner in which the news organization responded, presentation of facts, delivery, follow-ups, and news elements uncovered. - COMMERCIAL
A single commercial or series of commercials for one client. May be any commercial announcement written and produced by station personnel. May not include announcements produced with outside advertising or production agency assistance or directions.
Entries should include a single commercial or series of commercials presented as a single compilation that is no more than 3 minutes in length.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production. - COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
A series of actions by a station that result in a positive impact on one's community.
Entries should include a single compilation showcasing the station's annual community involvement that is no more than 10 minutes in length and an up to 500-word explanation of the initiatives.
Criteria: Station efforts, creativity, and community impact. - CONTINUING COVERAGE
Coverage of current events over an extended number of reports. Entries should include a single compilation of the station's best news coverage of a continuing current event that is no more than 20 minutes in length and may also include an up to 200-word explanation of coverage.
Criteria: Presentation of facts, thoroughness, story advancement, significance, and delivery. - DIGITAL EXCELLENCE
Overall station use of social media platforms and website to connect with its audience and inform the public.
Entries should include links to relevant social media accounts and websites and an up to 200-word description of the station's social media and website strategy.
Criteria: Quality of updates, use of user-generated content, and use of audio and visuals. - FEATURE PROGRAMMING
A single report or series of reports on a single topic which may be a public affairs program featuring issues of interest to Michigan citizens of all ages (may be children’s programming, recreation, sports, special performances, parades, concerts, et.) at local and state levels.
Entries should include a single report or series of reports edited into a single compilation that is no more than 20 minutes in length and may include an up to 200-word description.
Criteria: Production, relevancy, creativity. - FEATURE STORY
A single news report.
Entries should include a single news report that is no more than 10 minutes in length and may include an up to 200-word description.
Criteria: Human interest, subject portrayal, creative writing, effective use of audio and video. - INVESTIGATIVE STORY
Coverage of a significant event or issue affecting the community. May be an investigative or enterprise story.
Entries should include a single investigative story or series of stories presented as a single compilation that is no more than 20 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, presentation of facts, thoroughness, and delivery. - MINI-DOCUMENTARY OR SERIES
A series of reports on a single topic which may be included in regularly scheduled newscasts.
Entries should include a series of reports presented as a single compilation that is no more than 20 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensiveness, thoroughness of research, and production value. - MORNING SHOW BROADCAST PERSONALITY OR TEAM (6AM - 10AM)
Best local on-air morning broadcast personality or broadcast team. Syndicated programming is not eligible unless you are the flagship station.
Entries should include a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
This category is for morning shows only. Entrants will be asked to submit the time of their show in the entry system.
Criteria: Production, effectiveness, and creativity. - NEWSCAST
A locally originated newscast.
Entries should include a single newscast that is no more than 20 minutes in length.
Criteria: Presentation, production value, interest of stories presented, and overall impact of the newscast. - OTT CONTENT
Content produced exclusively for digital platforms, such as livestreams. Podcasts should be entered in the Podcast Series category.
Entries should include a single compilation of OTT content that is no more than 3 minutes in length and an up to 200-word explanation of content.
Criteria: Creativity, innovation, and production value. - PLAY-BY-PLAY SPORTS
Locally originated play-by-play live sports coverage of 1 game.
Entries should include up to 20 minutes of unedited continuous coverage of 1 game. Commercial breaks may be removed.
Criteria: Presentation and production value. - PODCAST SERIES
Best locally originated podcast series.
Entries should include a compilation of on-demand podcast content that is no more than 10 minutes in length and a link to the podcast feed that includes at least 10 episodes. Entries may also include station on-air promotion of the podcast.
Criteria: Creativity, innovation, and production value. - REGULARLY SCHEDULED BROADCAST PERSONALITY OR TEAM
Best regularly scheduled on-air weekday or weekend broadcast personality or broadcast team. Morning show broadcast personalities or teams should enter in the #10 Morning Show category.
Entries should include a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Production, effectiveness, and creativity. - SPECIAL SHOW BROADCAST PERSONALITY OR TEAM
Best on-air special broadcast personality or broadcast team.
Entries should include a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Production, effectiveness, and creativity. - SPORTSCAST
Best locally originated sportscast.
Entries should include a single sportscast that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Presentation, production value, and interest of stories presented. - SPORTS FEATURE OR SERIES
A series of reports on a single topic, or a single sports feature.
Entries should include a a series of reports presented as a single compilation, or a single sports feature that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Presentation, production value, and interest of stories presented. - STATION PROMOS
Audio promotion of your station or a promotional announcement for a program your station produces and airs. Must be written, produced, and aired on your station.
Entries should include a single promotion or series of promotions presented as a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length. Additional supporting marketing materials welcome.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production.
2025 Broadcast Excellence Awards, Commercial & Network Television Categories
Please respect the time limits for each category. Judges will be asked to stop watching entries at the time limit.
STATEWIDE BROADCASTING NETWORKS: Network Television categories are the same as the Commercial Television categories listed below, with the addition of the Independent Producer Category outlined in the Public Television Division.
- BREAKING NEWS STORY
A series of reports on initial coverage of a breaking or “unplanned” news event, branded as “Breaking News,” under immediate deadline, and within 24 hours of the breaking news event (Extended, in-depth coverage should be submitted in the Continuing Coverage category). National or international stories must include a local/Michigan angle.
Entries should include a series of reports edited into a single compilation that is no more than 20 minutes in length and may also include an up to 200-word description.
Criteria: News organization’s response, presentation of facts, delivery, follow-ups, and news elements uncovered. - COMMERCIAL
A single commercial or series of commercials for 1 client. May be any commercial announcement written and produced by station personnel. May not include announcements produced with outside advertising or production agency assistance or directions.
Entries should include a single commercial or series of commercials edited into a single compilation that is no more than 3 minutes in length.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production. - COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
A series of actions by a station that result in a positive impact in one’s community.
Entries should include a single compilation showcasing the station’s annual community involvement initiatives that is no more than 10 minutes in length and an up to 200-word explanation of the initiatives.
Criteria: Station efforts, creativity, and community impact. - CONTINUING COVERAGE
Coverage of current events over an extended number of reports.
Entries should include a single compilation of the station’s best news coverage of a continuing current event that is no more than 20 minutes in length and may also include an up to 200-word explanation of coverage.
Criteria: Presentation of facts, thoroughness, story advancement, significance, and delivery. - DIGITAL EXCELLENCE
Overall station use of social media platforms and website to connect with its audience and inform the public.
Entries should include links to relevant social media accounts and websites and an up to 200-word description of the station’s social media and website strategy.
Criteria: Quality of updates, use of user-generated content, and use of audio and visuals. - FEATURE STORY
A single report which aired in a newscast.
Entries should include a single report that is no more than 10 minutes in length and may also include an up to 200-word description.
Criteria: Human interest, subject portrayal, creative writing, and effective use of audio and video. - INVESTIGATIVE STORY
Coverage of a significant event or issue affecting the community. May be an investigative or enterprise story.
Entries should include a single investigative story or series of stories presented as a single compilation that is no more than 30 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, presentation or facts, thoroughness, and delivery. - MARKETING MATERIALS AND PROMOS
Promotion of your station or a promotional announcement for a program your station produces and airs. Must be written, produced, and aired on your station.
Entries should include a single promotion or series of promotions presented as a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production. - METEOROLOGIST
A compilation clip highlighting the Meteorologist’s abilities. Each station is allowed to enter up to 5 candidates.
Entries should include a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Clear presentation of facts, effective use of available technology, and delivery/communication skills. - NEWS SERIES
A series of reports on a single topic which may be included in regularly scheduled newscasts.
Entries should include a series of reports presented as a single compilation that is no more than 30 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensive, thoroughness of research and production values. - NEWSCAST
A locally originated newscast.
Entries should include a single newscast that is no more than 30 minutes in length.
Criteria: Presentation, production values, interest of stories presented and overall impact of the newscast. - NEWS ANCHOR
A compilation clip highlighting the news anchor’s abilities. Each station is allowed to enter up to five candidates. Entrants who submit in this category are not eligible to submit an entry in the #13 News Reporter category.
Entries should include a single compilation that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Story approach, on-air presence, and delivery. - NEWS REPORTER
A compilation of 3-5 events or stories highlighting an in the field news reporter, no montages will be accepted. Each station is allowed to enter up to 5 candidates. Entrants who submit in this category are not eligible to submit an entry in the #12 News Anchor category.
Entries should include a single compilation of 3-5 events or stories that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Writing, story approach, on-air presence, and delivery. - NEWS SPECIAL
A single program or documentary which aired separately from a regularly scheduled newscast.
Entries should include a single program that is no more than 60 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensiveness, thoroughness of research and production values. - OTT CONTENT
Content produced exclusively for digital platforms, such as livestreams or podcasts.
Entries should include a compilation of OTT content edited into a single video that is no more than 30 minutes in length and an up to 200-word explanation of content.
Criteria: Creativity, innovation, and production value. - PHOTOJOURNALIST
A compilation of 3-5 events or stories showing the photojournalist’s best work, no montages will be accepted. Each station is allowed to enter up to 5 candidates.
Entries should include a single compilation of 3-5 events or stories that is no more than 10 minutes in length.
Criteria: Creativity, continuity, and technical production. - SPECIAL INTEREST PROGRAMMING
A full public affairs program featuring issues of interest to Michigan citizens of all ages (may be children’s programming, recreation, sports, special performances, parades, concerts, etc.) at local or state levels.
Entries should include a full public affairs program that is no more than 60 minutes in length.
Criteria: Locally produced, presentation, production, and comprehensiveness. - SPORTS FEATURE OR SERIES
A series of reports on a single sports topic or a single sports feature.
Entries should include a series of reports presented as a single compilation or a single sports feature that is no more than 15 minutes in length.
Criteria: Presentation, production values, and interest of stories presented. - SPORTSCAST
Best locally originated sportscast.
Entries should include a single sportscast that is no more than 15 minutes in length.
Criteria: Presentation, production values, and interest of stories presented. - WEATHERCAST
A locally originated regularly scheduled weather broadcast or breaking weather event.
Entries should include a full weather broadcast or compilation of weather reports from one breaking weather event that is no more than 20 minutes in length.
Criteria: Clear presentation of facts, delivery/communication skills, and effective use of available technology.
2025 Broadcast Excellence Awards, Public Radio Categories
Entries, including those with multiple clips, may not exceed 60 minutes in total length unless otherwise specified. Please respect the time limits for each category. Judges will be asked to stop listening to entries at the time limit.
- COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
May be any public service announcement locally produced by the station, a public service activity coordinated by the station or any form of gratis community outreach which is a public service of the station to serve its local community. Submit file and any substantiating material. Entry must include an explanation of events.
Criteria: Production, creativity, and community impact. - FEATURE/USE OF MEDIUM
A single report which may have aired in a newscast as relief or contrast to serious reporting or a long form program.
Criteria: Human interest, subject portrayal, creative writing, entertainment value, effective use of audio, video and editing medium. - HARD NEWS & CURRENT EVENTS STORY
Coverage of a significant event effecting the community. May be an investigative or enterprise story.
Criteria: Significance, preservation of facts, thoroughness, and delivery. - MARKETING MATERIALS & PROMOS
Promotion of your station or a promotional announcement for a program your station produces and airs. Must be written, produced, and aired on your station. May be single announcement or series.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production. - MEMBERSHIP APPEAL
A live or pre-produced pitch or spot which is engaging and moves listeners to action.
Criteria: Should be unique, entertaining, and creative. - MINI-DOCUMENTARY OR SERIES
Series of reports on a single topic which may be included in a regularly scheduled newscast.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensive, thoroughness of research, and production values. - MUSIC FEATURE OR SPECIAL
A music-focused special program, feature, interview, or feature story. Entries should include programming that is not aired as part of a regular newscast or music programming block.
Criteria: Presentation, entertainment value, creativity, and enrichment. - MUSICAL PROGRAMMING
Best locally originated, regularly produced musical programming.
Criteria: Presentation, entertainment value, creativity, and enrichment. - NEWSCAST
Best locally originated newscast.
Criteria: Presentation, production values, interest of stories presented, and overall impact of the newscast. - NEWS SPECIAL OR PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM
A single, self-contained report or program which aired separately from a regularly scheduled news program and is at least 30 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensiveness, thoroughness of research, and production values. - SPECIAL INTEREST & CULTURAL PROGRAMMING
Public affairs program featuring issues of interest to Michigan citizens of all ages (may be children's programming, recreation, sports, special performances, parades, concerts, etc.) at local and state levels.
Criteria: Locally produced, presentation, production, and comprehensiveness. - SPOT NEWS
A report on any topic that aired during a station’s regular newscast. Maximum length of entry – two minutes.
Criteria: Clarity, conciseness, quality of writing, and quality of sound. - STATION EXCELLENCE
A 1,000-word maximum essay explaining why the station is deserving of the overall Station of the Year title. Must include as least three testimonials or letters of support from station partners, sponsors and/or affiliates. A station MUST enter this category to be considered for station of the year. - USE OF MULTIPLATFORM MEDIA, PROMOTIONAL/MEMBERSHIP MATERIALS
Stations should showcase their use of digital media content for promotional materials and membership appeal. Content placement examples include, but are not limited to, Reels, Instagram posts, and TikToks. Compile content into a linear submission up to ten minutes long. Criteria to be judged – innovation, creativity, presentation. - USE OF MULTIPLATFORM MEDIA, PROGRAMMING MATERIALS
Stations should showcase their use of digital media content for programming. Content placement examples include podcasts and online-specific programming. Compile content into a linear submission up to 30 minutes in length. Option to include a one-paragraph narrative of submission.
Criteria to be judged – innovation, creativity, presentation.
2025 Broadcast Excellence Awards, Public Television Categories
Entries, including those with multiple clips, may not exceed 60 minutes in total length unless otherwise specified. Please respect the time limits for each category. Judges will be asked to stop listening to entries at the time limit.
- COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
A compilation clip with 3-5 events. May be any public service announcement locally produced by the station, a public service activity coordinated by the station or any form of gratis community outreach which is a public service of the station to serve its local community. Entry must include a maximum 200-word explanation of events. Stations may include video/audio reel summarizing events that is no longer than five minutes in length. One entry will be allowed per station.
Criteria: Production, creativity, and community impact. - CULTURAL & PERFORMING ARTS
A single program or series primarily featuring performances. May include no more than three excerpts from a series.
Criteria: Subject portrayal, entertainment value, and effective use of audio, video and editing medium. - CULTURAL PROGRAMMING
A cultural documentary or series that presents the arts or cultures of a community.
Criteria: Enrichment, thoroughness, production, and presentation. - INDEPENDENT PRODUCER
An independently produced program or series that must have aired on the sponsoring public station. May only be entered by a Public Television Station.
Criteria: Presentation, production, thoroughness, and enrichment. - MARKETING MATERIALS & PROMOTIONS
Promotion of your station or a promotional announcement for a program your station produces. Must be written, produced by your station. May be single announcement, series, or digital campaign.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production. - MEMBERSHIP APPEAL
A live or pre-produced pitch, digital campaign, or spot which is engaging and moves listeners to action.
Criteria: Creativity, effectiveness, and production. - MINI-DOCUMENTARY OR SERIES
Series of reports on a single topic which may be included in a regularly scheduled newscast.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensive, thoroughness of research, and production values. - NEWS OR PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIAL
Best locally originated news or public affairs program or series.
Criteria: Presentation, production values, interest of stories presented, and overall impact of the program. - NEWS SPECIAL OR DOCUMENTARY
A single, self-contained report or program which is a least 30 minutes in length.
Criteria: Significance, resourcefulness, comprehensiveness, thoroughness of research, and production value. - SPECIAL INTEREST
Public affairs program featuring issues of interest to Michigan citizens of all ages (may be children's programming, parades, etc.) at local and state levels.
Criteria: Presentation, production, comprehensiveness, and enrichment. - SPORTS, OUTDOOR OR RECREATION
Best locally originated outdoor or recreation program, series, or live sports coverage.
Criteria: Presentation, production values, and interest of stories presented. - STATION EXCELLENCE
A 1,000-word maximum essay explaining why the station is deserving of the overall Station of the Year award. Must include as least three testimonials or letters of support from station partners, sponsors and/or affiliates. A station MUST enter this category to be considered for Station of the Year. - USE OF MULTI-PLATFORM MEDIA, SHORT FORM
Stations should showcase their use of short form digital media content. Content placement examples include, but are not limited to, Reels, Instagram posts, and Tik-Toks. Compile content into a single video up to ten minutes in length. Entry content must have been published on a digital platform.
Criteria: Innovation, creativity, and journalistic excellence. - USE OF MULTI-PLATFORM MEDIA, LONG FORM
Stations should showcase their use of long form digital media content. Content placement examples include podcasts and online-specific programming. Compile content into a single video more than ten minutes in length. Entry content must have been published on a digital platform.
Criteria: Innovation, creativity, and journalistic excellence.