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Country Broadcasters Honor Smulyan

He will be named as the 2015 Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award recipient

The Country Radio Broadcasters has announced they will present Jeff Smulyan with the 2015 Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award during the opening ceremonies of Country Radio Seminar 2015 in February.

The Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award is given at the discretion of the Country Radio Broadcasters Board of Directors to recognize an individual in the industry who has displayed a magnanimous spirit of caring and generosity. This award is named in honor of CRB Board member Tom Rivers, who died in 2004 at age 38 of bronchial asthma; he was associated with his work at WQYK(FM), Tampa/St. Petersburg and WUSN(FM), Chicago and was well regarded for his public service.

“Jeff Smulyan epitomizes the definition of the Tom Rivers Humanitarian award,” said CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne. “His commitment to broadcasting, service to community and personal giving is recognized across our industry.”

Smulyan has served as founder and chairman of the Board of Emmis Communications Corporation since 1980. He served as past chair of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership and sits on the Board of Trustees of his alma mater, the University of Southern California.

He has supported community organizations, including the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, the Bureau of Jewish Education, Beth El Zedeck, North Central High School, Academy Plus, Cathedral High School, the Indianapolis Zoo, the International School, United Way, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Planned Parenthood, the Broadcasters Foundation, his alma mater, U.S.C. and other Indiana-based organizations.

Additionally, Smulyan has served as board president of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, on the host committee of Indianapolis’ Super Bowl bid, and led fundraising efforts at the Humane Society, Indianapolis Arts Council, Fairbanks Hospital, PlayBall Indiana and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Under Smulyan’s direction, Emmis has contributed millions through cash and in-kind donations, sponsorships and other fundraising efforts. Emmis-Indy Radio supports community efforts, such as the Salvation Army’s Radiothon, now in its 17th year.

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