BFOA To Honor Jim Thompson
• The late Jim Thompson, well-respected radio and TV broadcast industry executive and longtime President of the Broadcasters Foundation of America, will be honored posthumously with the Chairman’s Award at the Broadcasters Foundation Breakfast, Wednesday, April 19 at 7am at the Wynn Las Vegas during the NAB Show. The Chairman’s Award is bestowed on an individual in recognition of their contribution to the broadcast industry. Thompson’s wife, Cindy, will accept the Award in his honor.
“Jim made an impact on everyone who worked for or with him,” said Scott Herman, Chairman of the Broadcasters Foundation. “He was always helping people in their careers and served as a mentor to many. His steadfast commitment to the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation was unwavering. It’s fitting for us to honor his memory and contributions to our industry and the Broadcasters Foundation.”
Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation, commented, “Jim was beloved and admired by many. He had a distinguished career and came to the Broadcasters Foundation ready to make a difference. Jim’s easy-going manner made it difficult to say no to him, and he increased donations, allowing the Foundation to help more broadcasters in need than ever before.”
Thompson took the reins of the Broadcasters Foundation in 2008, following a distinguished career that includes a stint as President & CEO of Group W Radio, and along with Mike Craven was co-owner of Liberty Broadcasting, a 19-station radio group. Thompson began his broadcasting career in 1971 as an account executive at KYW-TV/Philadelphia, later rising to VP/GM. Known as an innovator and visionary, Thompson also created the Radio Mercury Awards and served on the boards of the RAB and the Advertising Council and was Vice Chairman of the Pennsylvania State Broadcasters Association.
The Broadcasters Foundation Breakfast is complimentary to all in broadcasting, although registration is required. To register or make a donation, visit broadcastersfoundation.org or contact the Foundation at 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.
