The Georgia Association of Broadcasters is pleased to announce its Hall of Fame class of 2017. This year’s inductees include legendary Voice of the Atlanta Hawks Steve Holman, John Ray of WRDW and WAGT in Augusta, Don Benson former President and CEO of Lincoln Financial/Jefferson Pilot and Troy Mattox owner of WKUB, WWUF and WSGT in Waycross and Blackshear.

“This year’s inductees represent a wide range of broadcasting careers. We have inductees, who have experienced significant long-term corporate success in radio and television, and inductee who while serving our country in Vietnam made a pact with his now business partner and best friend to own a small market radio station in their hometown, and an inductee who has entertained millions of NBA and Atlanta basketball fans as the voice of the Hawks for more than a quarter of a century. Combined this year’s four inductees have committed over 160 years to the broadcasting industry,” said Bob Houghton, President of the Georgia Association of Broadcasters.

This year’s Hall of Fame class brings the total number of inductees to 81 since its inception. Consideration for this honor is given to broadcasters with a minimum of 20 years in broadcasting with a significant portion of their career spent in Georgia, a solid record of achievement including: rating dominance and local/national awards, and a history of dedication to the communities they serve.

The 2017 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held at UGA’s Richard B. Russell Special Collections Library on February 24th. An honorees reception will be held before the event to begin at 11:00 AM, with the Hall of Fame luncheon to follow.