Ralph M. Oakley To Receive NAB Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award

The award recognizes Oakley's distinguished career and commitment to local television.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced that Ralph M. Oakley, a leader in local broadcasting, will receive the Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award in recognition of his distinguished career and enduring commitment to local television. The award will be presented on March 3 during a special radio and television broadcasting awards presentation at the NAB State Leadership Conference in Washington.

Why it matters

Oakley's leadership and community commitment have strengthened local journalism, expanded access to educational opportunities, and advanced the values that define the broadcasting industry. As a trusted voice and guiding force for broadcasters nationwide, his recognition with this award highlights the importance of local television and the individuals who have dedicated their careers to serving their communities.

The details

Oakley began his broadcasting career in 1977 with Quincy Newspapers Inc., later known as Quincy Media, working at WGEM AM-FM-TV in Quincy, Illinois. He went on to hold various roles at other stations before joining Quincy Media's corporate office. Oakley served as president and chief executive officer of Quincy Media from 2009 until the company sold its television stations and newspapers in 2021. Under his leadership, Quincy Media reinforced its role as a trusted source of local news and community service. Oakley currently owns WJMN-TV Marquette, Michigan, serving the Upper Peninsula with locally focused news, weather, and community programming.

  • Oakley will receive the award on March 3, 2026, during the NAB State Leadership Conference in Washington.
  • Oakley began his broadcasting career in 1977 with Quincy Newspapers Inc., later known as Quincy Media.
  • Oakley served as president and chief executive officer of Quincy Media from 2009 until the company sold its television stations and newspapers in 2021.

The players

Ralph M. Oakley

A leader in local broadcasting who will receive the NAB Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award in recognition of his distinguished career and enduring commitment to local television.

Curtis LeGeyt

The NAB President-CEO, who praised Oakley's steadfast leadership, deep community commitment, and lifelong service to others.

Quincy Newspapers Inc.

The company Oakley began his broadcasting career with in 1977, later known as Quincy Media.

WJMN-TV Marquette

The television station Oakley currently owns, serving the Upper Peninsula with locally focused news, weather, and community programming.

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What they’re saying

“Ralph Oakley exemplifies the spirit of local broadcasting through his steadfast leadership, deep community commitment and lifelong service to others. His work inside and outside of our industry has strengthened local journalism, expanded access to educational opportunities and advanced the values that define our industry. Ralph has long been a trusted voice and guiding force for broadcasters nationwide, and we are proud to honor him with this well-deserved recognition at the NAB State Leadership Conference.”

— Curtis LeGeyt, NAB President-CEO

What’s next

The award will be presented to Ralph M. Oakley on March 3, 2026, during a special radio and television broadcasting awards presentation at the NAB State Leadership Conference in Washington.

The takeaway

Oakley's recognition with the NAB Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award highlights the importance of local television and the individuals who have dedicated their careers to serving their communities. His leadership and commitment to local journalism, education, and community service have made a lasting impact on the broadcasting industry.