The Texas Radio Hall of Fame will celebrate its Class of 2026 during a November 7 induction ceremony in Kilgore. This year’s honorees represent decades of contributions to broadcasting across Texas.
What We Know: Saturday’s ceremony begins at noon at the Texas Broadcast Museum in Kilgore. Honorees include Urban One executive Doug Abernethy, former Houston morning host Kevin Kline and longtime East Texas personality Diane Day. Other inductees include former KKBQ host Dave E. Crockett, Dallas programmer Jay Creswell and veteran KSAM broadcaster Clyde “Kooter” Roberson. Meanwhile, East Texas radio owners Jerry and Wanda Hanszen of KGAS and KMHT will receive Small Markets/Big Voices honors.
Additionally, JAM Creative Productions founders Jonathan and Mary Lyn Wolfert will receive the George Baches Award for their contributions to radio branding and imaging. Five late broadcasters will receive Lone Star Legacies honors, including longtime Austin radio personality David Anderson and country radio veteran Ted Stecker.
What They Said: “That was just something that I consider one of the biggest blessings in my 40-odd-year radio career. How could you not want to be inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame?” –Diane Day told KLTV
What Remains Unclear: The Texas Radio Hall of Fame hasn’t disclosed how many eligible members participated in this year’s induction vote. Likewise, organizers haven’t indicated whether the ceremony will be livestreamed or recorded for later viewing.
What It Means: The Class of 2026 reflects Texas radio’s lasting influence across generations and markets. By honoring local personalities alongside programmers and industry leaders, the Hall recognizes contributions both on-air and behind the scenes. The recognition also reinforces the importance of local radio, where community connections often define a broadcaster’s lasting legacy.
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