2025 MAPB Public Media Impact Award Honorees
Award Recipients will be recognized during the Evening of Excellence at the MAB Summer Leadership Conference at Park Place Hotel on August 12, 2025. Click Here to purchase a ticket to the Evening of Excellence (Select "Awards Reception and Banquet Only").
Bill Hart
Professional Recognition
WNMU-FM, Public Radio 90 (Marquette)
William “Bill” Hart has dedicated his life to public radio as a decades-long fixture at WNMU-FM, Public Radio 90 in Marquette, MI.
While serving as WNMU News Director and Operations Manager, Bill advanced the station’s mission of public service, journalistic integrity, and local connection. Even after his official retirement over 20 years ago, Bill has remained a vital part of the station’s success — always ready to step in, lend his voice, and share his passion for public media.
In 2008, when the station suddenly lost its “Media Meet” host, Bill didn’t hesitate. He returned to helm the program on both TV and radio, continuing for more than a decade until 2019. Beyond journalism, Bill is also a talented musician and blues historian. His trio, Harp, Hart & Bones, has performed at festivals, events and venues across the region and in the deep South, and regularly brings that soulful expertise back to WNMU-FM with programs tied to the Marquette Area Bluesfest and a specialty program he created called "House of Blue Lights."
Bill's contributions extend to fundraising, where his trusted voice has helped lead successful pledge drives year after year as a tireless on-air advocate, and also a generous supporter himself.
Whether behind the mic or behind the scenes, Bill Hart has exemplified the very best of public media. His leadership, authenticity, and community-minded spirit make him a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Public Media Impact Award.
Dr. Connie Ruhl-Smith & Dr. James M. Smith
Donor Recognition
WEMU-FM, Eastern Michigan University (Ypsilanti)
Dr. James M. Smith serves as the 23rd president of Eastern Michigan University, a role he assumed in 2016. Under his leadership, EMU has launched transformative initiatives including the $100 million GiveRise fundraising campaign, the President’s Sustainability Commission, and the $200 million Welcome Home 2025 housing initiative.
A champion of student success, academic innovation, and community engagement, Dr. Smith has expanded academic offerings, strengthened international partnerships, and introduced enrollment programs to broaden college access. Prior to EMU, he held academic and leadership roles across the country, including the presidency of Northern State University.
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Smith holds degrees from Miami University and Xavier University and began his career as a public school teacher and principal. He went on to work as an assistant professor, academic program director and coordinator, and vice president for Economic Development at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio before heading to NSU and eventually, EMU.
Dr. Connie Ruhl-Smith is an experienced educational leader with extensive background in the study of K-12 schools, post-secondary student success, and international student growth in varied university settings.
A three-time Miami University alumna (B.S., M.S., Ph.D.), she is a published scholar, national presenter and academic leader specializing in K‑12 and post-secondary student retention and international education. Dr. Ruhl-Smith is known for her deep insights into the complex world of student retention to degree attainment and the myriad factors required to allow said success to come to fruition.
Her current work at Eastern Michigan University is dedicated to international development, with targeted attention to alumni giving around the globe, as well as obtaining corporate support for the university’s growing international population now emanating from more than 80 different countries.
Together, Dr. James M. Smith and Dr. Connie Ruhl-Smith reside at University House on EMU’s Ypsilanti campus.
This year, the Smiths are honored with the 2025 MAPB Public Media Impact Award, recognizing their exceptional support and impact on public broadcasting in Michigan.