Arkansas Broadcasters Association Announces Inaugural Hall of Fame Class
The Arkansas Broadcasters Association (ABA) has announced its inaugural class of the Arkansas Broadcasters Hall of Fame, consisting of five prominent individuals in the state’s broadcasting industry. The honorees were chosen based on their significant contributions to the field, their local communities, and the industry in Arkansas.
The selection process involved an evaluation of nominees in three key areas: their career achievements, community involvement, and contributions to the broadcast industry. Up to five individuals were selected for induction, with no more than two being posthumous.
The inaugural inductees include (Broadway) Joe Booker of Little Rock, Bobby Caldwell of Wynne, Jim Pitcock (posthumously) of Little Rock, B.J. Sams of Little Rock, and Kermit Womack of Rogers. Each of these individuals has had a profound impact on the Arkansas broadcast landscape, from shaping community engagement to preserving the state’s history through news archives.
The induction ceremony will take place at the Hall of Fame Banquet on October 14th as part of the ABA’s annual convention in Hot Springs. This event marks the start of a new tradition honoring the achievements of Arkansas broadcasters and inspiring future generations to maintain the level of excellence exemplified by these inductees.
These inductees represent a diverse range of experiences, from on-air personalities to entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Bobby Caldwell, for instance, is the owner and CEO of East Arkansas Broadcasters, emphasizing local content and community involvement. B.J. Sams, with over 55 years of experience, has worked across radio and television, earning numerous honors for his work and community service.
This inaugural class sets the standard for future inductees, highlighting the association’s commitment to acknowledging the dedication and accomplishments of its members. The Arkansas Broadcasters Hall of Fame provides a platform to celebrate the state’s rich broadcasting history and inspire continued innovation and service in the industry.
