Heidi Raphael Named Pres./CEO, NYSBA
• The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) announced the appointment of Heidi Raphael as its next President & Chief Executive Officer, succeeding David Donovan, who has lead the organization for the past 15 years, and who will transition from the President & CEO role later this year while continuing to direct NYSBA’s government relations and advocacy efforts in Albany and Washington, D.C.
A Western New York native, Raphael joins NYSBA following a distinguished career in broadcasting and media leadership, most recently serving as Chief Communications Officer of Beasley Media Group for nearly a decade. Before that, Raphael spent more than 20 years with Greater Media, Inc. rising to SVP of Corporate Communications.
“We are thrilled to welcome Heidi Raphael as the next President & CEO of the New York State Broadcasters Association,” said Chris Musial, Chairman of the NYSBA Board of Directors and VP/GM of WBBZ-TV/Buffalo. “Heidi brings an exceptional combination of leadership experience, industry knowledge, and passion for broadcasting. We are confident she is the right leader to guide NYSBA into its next chapter while continuing the outstanding work David Donovan has led over the past decade and a half.”
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve New York’s broadcasters over the past 15 years,” said Donovan. “Our industry continues to evolve, and I believe Heidi is uniquely qualified to lead NYSBA forward. Her experience, energy, and deep commitment to local broadcasting make her an outstanding choice. I look forward to working closely with her to ensure a smooth transition and to continuing our advocacy efforts on behalf of broadcasters across New York State.”
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to follow in the footsteps of David Donovan as President & CEO of the New York State Broadcasters Association,” said Raphael. “David’s leadership and tireless advocacy on behalf of New York broadcasters have left a lasting impact on our industry, and I am grateful for the opportunity to build upon the strong foundation he has created. As someone who was born, raised, and began my broadcasting career in Western New York, the opportunity to return home, serve New York’s broadcasters, and be closer to my family is truly special. I look forward to working with the Board of Directors, David, the Association’s talented staff, and our member stations to support the broadcasters across our state. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to Caroline Beasley and the entire Beasley Media Group family for their support and the many opportunities that have helped shape my career and prepare me for this exciting next chapter.”
Caroline Beasley, CEO of Beasley Media Group, commented, “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Heidi for nearly a decade, and she has become not only a trusted colleague, but also a valued friend. While we will miss her tremendously, I couldn’t be happier for her as she begins this exciting new chapter, and I know she will lead the New York State Broadcasters Association with the same passion, integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment that have made her such a treasured member of the Beasley family.”
