CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Broadcasters Association (WVBA) announced the winners of the 2018 Excellence in Broadcasting Awards, recognizing outstanding work in television, radio, and network broadcasting across the state.
This year’s ceremony honored Mike Kirtner of Huntington with the Mel Burka Distinguished Broadcaster Award, celebrating his long-standing leadership and contributions to West Virginia media. WDGG 93.7 THE DAWG was named Legendary Station of the Year, and WCHS-TV earned Best Television Station of the Year. The John McKinney Excellence in Technology Award was presented to Bob Hardman of WBOY-TV.
Television winners included WVVA-TV, WVNS-TV, WOWK-TV, WSAZ-TV, WCHS-TV, WBOY-TV, and others recognized for excellence in community service, feature reporting, sports coverage, investigative journalism, digital media, and creative production.
Radio honors spanned AC/Oldies, CHR, Country, News/Talk, and Rock categories, with standout recognition for stations including WVAF-FM, WKQR-FM, WJLS-FM, WCHS-AM, WVAQ-FM, WKMZ-FM, and WSTG-FM across on-air talent, morning shows, newscasts, promotions, creativity, and digital work.
Network-level awards highlighted statewide reporting and sports coverage, with achievements from MetroNews, WOWK-TV, Chris Lawrence, Kyle Wiggs, and others for long-form programming, breaking news coverage, and talk broadcasting.
WVBA leadership praised this year’s honorees, noting the continued dedication of broadcasters across West Virginia.
“The work celebrated this year reflects a profound commitment to community, storytelling, and public service,” WVBA leadership shared. “We commend all broadcasters who help keep West Virginians informed every day.”
A full list of winners, event photographs, and additional details are available online.