7th Annual NBRHOF Induction Awards

Celebrating Legacy: The 7th Annual National Black Radio Hall of Fame Induction Awards Honors Pioneers and Trailblazers

By Phoenix Ascar

The National Black Radio Hall of Fame (NBRHOF) celebrated its 7th Annual Induction Awards with resounding success at its headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. The historic occasion brought together broadcasting pioneers, civic leaders, and distinguished guests to honor the legacies and contributions of African American radio professionals whose voices have shaped generations and amplified community narratives across the nation.

Led by NBRHOF President Bernie Hayes, Senior Vice President Uvee Hayes, and Vice President Marsha Washington George, this year’s ceremony marked another significant milestone in the organization’s mission to preserve, uplift, and commemorate the underrecognized voices in Black Radio history.

An Electrifying Night of Honors and History

This year’s induction welcomed 38 new honorees into the NBRHOF Hall of Fame each one recognized for their groundbreaking achievements in broadcasting. Every inductee received a Resolution from the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus and a Resolution from the City of Saint Louis Board of Aldermen

The evening was further dignified by the presence of Senator Angela Walton Mosley (District 13) and Representative Michael Johnson (23rd Legislative District – Kansas City), who also serves as Chairman of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus. On behalf of the caucus — which collectively represents over 1 million constituents across St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Kansas City, and Mid-Missouri — the officials presented the resolutions, ensuring each inductee, both living and posthumous, was formally recognized by the state.

Chapter leaders from across the country were also in attendance, including Dave Smith (Atlanta Chapter), Margaret Jones (Charlotte Chapter), Don Cody (Florida Chapter), and Dr. Phil Nelson (Virginia Chapter) — a testament to the NBRHOF growing national presence and the unity among regional leaders committed to preserving Black Radio history.

Honoring Excellence: Michael Carter & the Carter Broadcast Legacy

One of the night’s most celebrated honorees was Michael Carter, who received the prestigious CEO Community Service Award for his exceptional leadership and service. Carter is the President and General Manager of Carter Broadcast Group, Inc., and the torchbearer of a remarkable legacy initiated by his grandfather, Andrew “Skip” Carter.

In 1950, “Skip” Carter founded KPRS, the nation’s first and oldest African American-owned radio station. Now entering its 75th year of continuous service, KPRS-FM — along with its sister station KPRT-AM — remains a cornerstone of Kansas City’s cultural and media landscape.

Under Michael Carter’s leadership, KPRS has garnered numerous accolades, including NAB Marconi Awards, Crystal Radio Awards, and national honors recognizing its commitment to community outreach, public service, and broadcasting excellence. Michael’s work has not only kept the Carter family’s legacy alive but has elevated it to new heights, serving as a beacon for the next generation of broadcasters and media professionals.

His continued involvement in national and local organizations underscores a vision rooted in community empowerment and cultural preservation — values that lie at the heart of the National Black Radio Hall of Fame’s mission.

A Soulful Tribute: Performance by Dave Tolliver of Men At Large and The Levert Experience

Adding to the night’s star-studded energy was a special performance by R&B legend Dave Tolliver, co-founder of the chart-topping group Men At Large and frontman of the acclaimed Levert Experience, which is currently on tour.

Behind the Lens: Capturing the Magic

The event was visually and emotionally captured by a talented team of creatives, including Publicist, Red Carpet Producer, and Photographer Phoenix Ascar, as well as Videographers and Photographers Dontay Dailey and ChaQuan Herndon. Their artistry ensured that the spirit, pride, and powerful moments of the night including red carpet moments to heartfelt speeches were documented with integrity and purpose

Upholding a Vital Mission

Founded to correct the historical underrepresentation of African American radio pioneers, the National Black Radio Hall of Fame continues to be a steward of Black media excellence. Through events like the Induction Awards, the organization ensures that the legacies of these trailblazers are not just remembered — they are celebrated and institutionalized.

President Bernie Hayes, alongside Uvee Hayes, Marsha Washington George, event planner Sharon Seay, and the entire Board of Directors and Chapter Presidents, extended heartfelt thanks to all honorees, supporters, and guests who made the 7th Annual Induction Awards an unforgettable celebration of achievement, history, and legacy.

“This is not just a ceremony; it’s a movement,” said President Hayes. “We are preserving voices, stories, and power. Black radio built communities — and it will continue to do so, long into the future.”

As the National Black Radio Hall of Fame continues to expand its reach and deepen its mission, events like this stand as powerful reminders that the voices of Black Radio not only shaped the past — they continue to shape the future.

As the 7th Annual Induction Awards drew to a close, one truth echoed louder than any applause: Black Radio is not just a legacy — it is a living, breathing force that continues to inspire, inform, and uplift.

Phoenix Ascar: Publist & Marsha Washington George, President NBRHOF