Act Now to Celebrate the Biggest Night in Texas Broadcasting

-TAB Leadership Awards Entries Due April 17

With more Radio and TV stations and media markets than any other state and some of the largest media markets in the country, Texas boasts some of the most extraordinarily talented women and men in the industry who are leading with ingenuity, creativity and passion. Only a handful will be honored by their peers at the 2026 TAB Show closing night Awards Gala Aug. 6, with nominations due April 17.

Whole-station awards also are up for the taking, including the Bonner McLane Public Service Awards that come with $6,000 in cash prizes and an April 24 deadline for submissions.

Emerging leaders are eligible for the Jason Hightower Award for Broadcasting Excellence, named for the dynamic young Aggie who grew KMOO Mineola into a powerhouse and quickly rose through the industry's leadership ranks to become TAB Board Chair just 10 years after signing on before losing his battle with cancer half-way through his chairmanship. He was 37.

This award recognizes an individual with at least two (2) years' experience in the broadcast industry who demonstrates a proficiency for enterprise and innovation in a member station's service to its audience, advertisers and community. The winners in both the Radio and TV categories will receive complimentary registration for the Convention & Trade Show, as well as two (2) complimentary hotel room nights.

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The George Marti Award for Engineering Excellence, named for the legendary Cleburne broadcaster whose innovative engineering powered Radio to new heights, honors individuals whose development of new technology, leadership in education and contributions to industry technical standards mirrored Marti's.

Nominations are also due for the Radio Broadcaster and Television Broadcaster of the Year whose commitment to excellence over the past 12 months stand as an example to others in broadcasting, as well as for the Pioneer of the Year to be honored for contributions in public service, historical developments or significant industry advances in Texas and/or the nation.

Whole-station awards also are up for the taking, including the TV and Radio Stations of the Year, as well as the Bonner McLane Public Service Awards - named for TAB's first executive director - for Radio and TV in three market size categories which come with $1,000 cash prizes.

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No entry fees are required, but submissions must address the specific criteria and questions laid out for each award.

Video and audio files supporting the nominations are encouraged.

VIEW MORE INFORMATION AND SUBMIT NOMINATIONS