September 1, 2026 | Amway Grand | Grand Rapids
A front-row look at the legislative and regulatory issues shaping the future of broadcasting.
The MAB Policy Summit brings Michigan broadcasters together to discuss the policy issues, regulatory developments, and industry challenges that impact local radio and television stations. This summit provides an opportunity to hear directly from policymakers, industry leaders, and advocacy experts about the decisions being made in Lansing and Washington that affect the future of broadcasting.
Held in conjunction with the MAB Annual Business Meeting and Evening of Excellence, the Policy Summit also offers an opportunity for members to engage in association leadership discussions and celebrate the accomplishments of broadcasters across the state. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the policy landscape while connecting with colleagues and leaders who are helping shape the future of Michigan broadcasting.
2025 MAB Summer Leadership Conference & Evening of Excellence Recap
The 2025 MAB Summer Leadership Conference in Traverse City brought together broadcasters from across Michigan for a day of connection, insight, and celebration.
The conference began with a private tour of the historic former State Hospital in Traverse City, exclusively for members of the MAB Board of Directors. That evening, conference attendees gathered for a rooftop welcome reception at the new 910 Media Group Studios in downtown Traverse City, enjoying live music and stunning views.
Conference day featured an engaging lineup of sessions designed to inform and inspire. Highlights included a special edition of Issues & Ale with former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, as well as presentations from Josh Pollack of the National Association of Broadcasters and MAB legal counsel David Oxenford. Political strategist Jason Roe, Duggan for Governor's Stephanie Grimes Washington, and Fox 2's Roop Raj closed out the conference with a 2026 political forecast. During the Annual Business Meeting, MAB members voted in a new Board of Directors to lead the association in the year ahead.
The evening concluded with the signature Evening of Excellence awards celebration. Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered keynote remarks to kick off the program, which honored the Lifetime Achievement of WOOD-TV8's Julie Brinks, welcomed this year’s Michigan Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductees, recognized Public Media Impact, and celebrated the industry’s future with the Young Professional Award.
Thank you to all who joined us in Traverse City for an unforgettable conference. We look forward to building on this momentum together in the year ahead.