In addition to his unwavering love for radio, John David is also known for his dry sense of humor. His jokes, bad attempts at jokes, and facial expressions have added a very enjoyable element to many awards presentations in his role as NAB’s Executive Vice President of Radio. And yes, he did cry Wednesday…but how could he not when his son was the voiceover for the special video NAB put together to honor their long-term ambassador.
On Wednesday, John David was honored with the NAB’s National Radio Award for his 30 years of service to the NAB representing radio. NAB CEO Gordon Smith called David an outstanding leader and role model. “John is an unrelenting advocate for radio. He spent his entire career doing what he loves. He is a friendly face to radio and on Capitol Hill.
Before joining the NAB, John David had a long and successful career in radio. From 1971 to 1988 he was EVP of J. R. Broadcasting Company as owner and GM of radio stations in Missouri and Kansas. From 1984 to 1988, David represented Kansas and Missouri as a member of the NAB Radio Board. Radio Ink Magazine has named David to its list of the Top 40 Most Powerful People in Radio since 2000, and he was a recipient of the Ward Quaal Leadership Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America at the NAB Show in 2017.
A well deserved award. John was also a disc jockey on then legendary rocker KOMA-AM. He truly is a legend in Radio!