Joel Oxley to Receive the 2026 NAB National Radio Award

Award to Be Presented Oct. 20 at the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards

Washington, D.C. — On National Radio Day, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) proudly announces that Joel Oxley, President and General Manager of Hubbard Radio Washington, D.C., will receive 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 and 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, D.C., 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 general manager in 1998. Over the following decades, he expanded his responsibilities to oversee Hubbard Radio’s Washington, D.C., 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.

Beyond his operational accomplishments, Oxley has been widely respected as a collaborative industry leader and mentor. Throughout his career, he has championed local broadcasting, invested in developing future leaders and remained actively engaged in community service, including many years of service on the board of the Metropolitan Police Boys & Girls Clubs. His leadership philosophy has consistently emphasized the importance of trusted local journalism, strong community partnerships and building exceptional teams.

Earlier this year, Oxley announced plans to retire at the beginning of 2027 after nearly 35 years at WTOP and 28 years as general manager. He will continue supporting the company through its leadership transition before serving in an advisory role.

Oxley will be honored during the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner, radio’s biggest night, where broadcasters from across the country gather to celebrate excellence in local radio. The event will be held Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City, the evening before NAB Show New York opens.

Tables, tickets and additional event information are available at NAB.org/Marconis. Download Joel Oxley’s headshot and view the complete list of 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Award finalists also being recognized during the event.

Registration for NAB Show New York 2026 is now open. Stay up to date on the latest show news by adding your name to the press list. Visit the press resources page to explore news releases, media kits, creative assets, style guides and more. (Qualified media must apply for accreditation separately from other attendee passes.)

About NAB Show New York

NAB Show New York, produced by the National Association of Broadcasters, is the premier East Coast marketplace for media innovation, bringing together the creators, producers, broadcasters, technologists and business leaders shaping the future of content and storytelling. Taking place Oct. 21-22, 2026, at the Javits Center in New York City, the event showcases the tools, technologies, insights and connections driving media creation, production and distribution. Learn more at NABShowNY.com.

About NAB

The National Association of Broadcasters advocates for policies and technological innovations that empower America’s local television and radio stations to serve every community with trusted journalism, vital emergency information and the sports and entertainment that bring Americans together. Learn more at nab.org.

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