Kevin O’Dea, President and General Manager of Neuhoff Media Springfield, will be honored with the prestigious Vincent T. Wasilewski Illinois Broadcaster of the Year award by the Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA). O’Dea becomes the third Neuhoff Media recipient of this distinguished honor, following the late Geoff Neuhoff, who received the award in 2010, and Beth Neuhoff, who was recognized in 2016. O’Dea’s career in broadcasting has been marked by his leadership, vision, and dedication, making him a standout figure in the industry.
In May 2024, O’Dea celebrated 42 years of service in the Springfield media landscape. Under his leadership, Neuhoff Media Springfield has won five Illinois Broadcasters Association Station of the Year Awards. Additionally, he spearheaded the creation of Channel1450.com, an exclusive video-focused website dedicated to local high school sports coverage. His efforts have had a lasting impact on the community and helped shape Springfield’s media scene.
O’Dea’s influence extends beyond local media. His contributions have been recognized on the national stage, earning him the 2004 Clear Channel Executive of the Year Award and the title of General Manager of the Year at Radio Ink Magazine’s prestigious Radio Wayne Awards in 2014.
The Vincent T. Wasilewski Illinois Broadcaster of the Year award is given to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the broadcasting field, upholding the legacy of excellence established by the award’s namesake, Vincent T. Wasilewski, a former president of the National Association of Broadcasters.
The award will be presented during the IBA’s annual conference on October 8, 2024, at Illinois State University’s Bone Center.
