Oxley To Receive 2026 NAB Radio Award
• On National Radio Day, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) proudly announces that Joel Oxley, President & General Manager of Hubbard Radio Washington, DC, will be the recipient of the 2026 NAB National Radio Award. Oxley will be honored during the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner brought to You by Xperi on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.
“NAB is honored to recognize Joel Oxley for his extraordinary leadership and lasting contributions to the radio industry,” said NAB President & CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “For more than three decades at WTOP and Federal News Network, and over 15 years at Hubbard Radio, Joel has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to local journalism, innovation and public service. Under his leadership, WTOP has become one of the nation’s premier news operations, setting the standard for excellence in local broadcasting while serving the Washington, DC, community with trusted journalism. His integrity, vision and dedication have left an enduring mark on our industry, making him a most deserving recipient of this year’s National Radio Award.”
Oxley joined WTOP in 1992 as an account executive and steadily advanced through the organization’s leadership ranks before being named GM in 1998. Over the following decades, he expanded his responsibilities to oversee Hubbard’s DC, operations, including WTOP News and Federal News Network, helping guide one of the country’s most respected local media organizations.
During Oxley’s tenure, WTOP earned national recognition as one of America’s leading news radio stations and consistently ranked as the nation’s top-billing radio property. His leadership helped position the organization for continued success across broadcast, digital, video and social media platforms while maintaining an unwavering commitment to local journalism and public service. Under his guidance, Hubbard’s Washington stations have received numerous Edward R. Murrow Awards, NAB Marconi Radio Awards and NAB Crystal Radio Awards for excellence in broadcasting and community service.
Earlier this year, Oxley announced plans to retire at the beginning of 2027 after nearly 35 years at WTOP and 28 years as GM. He will continue supporting the company through its leadership transition before serving in an advisory role.
Tables, tickets and additional event information are available at NAB.org/Marconis.
