As the dust settles on another memorable Summer Conference, and as the newly named WBA Chair, I find myself in a truly reflective state of mind. This year was particularly special, largely driven by our 75th anniversary celebrations, robust attendance numbers, and great discussions. Seeing the meeting rooms filled with passionate radio, TV, and digital media professionals from every corner of the state was a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and unity of our local broadcast community. It’s a space where we all root for the power of local broadcasting.
As I attended sessions, socialized with other fellow broadcasters, and made new connections, I couldn’t help but travel back in time to my very first WBA conference years ago. I arrived as a new manager, excited to be in attendance but a bit intimidated by the amount of tenure and experience in the room. I was incredibly fortunate to be there under the wing of my then GM / mentor. He didn’t just bring me along to stand in the back of the room; he intentionally walked me through sessions, luncheons, and receptions, introducing me to association and Foundation members. In true WBA fashion, those connections were welcoming and helpful and immediately made me feel part of the group.
It was, in part, during that first conference that the foundation for my professional journey as a leader in broadcasting was truly laid. The people I met years ago didn’t just remain professional contacts; many of them became friends. That is the secret ingredient of the WBA. The WBA is like family. As Michelle always says, once you’re one of us, you’re always one of us.
Of course, like any family, time brings change. Each summer, the conference is a bittersweet reminder of our industry’s passing seasons. We welcome new faces with open arms while at the same time saying goodbye to beloved icons who are signing off into retirement. This year, I had the distinct pleasure of spending time meeting a few of our bright young professionals, listening to their experiences coming into the industry. I also loved connecting with talented folks who are new to our state, ensuring they felt the same warm WBA welcome that I received years ago.
Beyond the social reconnections, the heart of the conference lies in the vital discussions happening in the hallways, during coffee breaks, and over social gatherings. Our media landscape is changing at a breakneck pace. From shifting audience habits to new ways to consume our content, the challenges we face require us to be more agile than ever. Yet, the overwhelming consensus of our conversations was not one of hesitation, but of collective determination. We talked at length about what we can do to adapt as a whole—how we can innovate across our airwaves and digital streams while fiercely protecting our core mission: Serving our local communities with trusted news, entertainment, and vital public service.
Leaving the conference, my creative and professional battery is completely recharged. The record attendance proves that our desire to connect, learn, and grow together is stronger than ever. I am already looking forward to our next gathering, ready to see our WBA family once again and continue shaping the future of local broadcasting together.
Anna Engelhart
WBA Board Chair
