ATLANTA, Ga. — The Georgia Association of Broadcasters (GAB) is proud to announce the 2026 Class of Rising Stars, a select group of young professionals who will be honored during the association’s annual convention, GABCON, taking place September 25th and 26th at the Gas South District Conference Center in Duluth.
The Rising Star Award recognizes station employees in the early stages of their careers who have demonstrated exceptional promise, drive, and passion for broadcasting. Honorees are selected based on their strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, and willingness to go above and beyond their daily responsibilities to create outstanding content that informs, entertains, and inspires their audiences.
Candidates must have fewer than five years of professional experience and represent the very best of Georgia’s up-and-coming broadcast talent.
2026 Rising Stars Honorees:
- Latonio Harmonson – WCON
- Madison Gott – WCON
- David Joaqui – WFXG
- Drew Pavan – WTVM
- Sarah Kallis – GPB
- Jillian Kohls – WSAV
- Isabella Baez – WSAV
- Peter Weil – WANF
- William Daughtry – WDUN
- Pedro Lopez – WJCL
- Tia Maggio – WJCL
- Noah Hauck – WGXA
- Kayla Lopez – WRDW
- Ansley Parker – WMAZ
- Gary Nipple – WJBF
- Avery Gray – WJBF
- Jessica Kay – Gradick Communications LLC
This year’s Rising Stars will take an active role throughout GABCON, sharing their experiences and perspectives with fellow broadcasters during a special panel discussion as part of the GABCON Education Sessions on Saturday, September 26.
The GAB will also recognize each of the 2026 Rising Stars during the GABBY Awards on Saturday evening. Throughout the weekend, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with these outstanding young professionals who are helping shape the future of broadcasting in Georgia.
As the Rising Stars program continues to grow, it remains a key part of GAB’s commitment to recognizing, developing, and retaining the next generation of broadcast leaders across the state.
“The Rising Stars program celebrates the incredible talent already making an impact in our industry,” said GAB President Randy Gravley. “These young broadcasters are bringing fresh ideas, creativity, and leadership to their stations, and we’re proud to recognize their contributions while investing in the future of broadcasting in Georgia.”
Programs like these are made possible by the GAB’s Education Foundation, which funds scholarships, educational programming, and hands-on opportunities for the next generation of broadcasters. To continue supporting these initiatives, please consider a donation to the GAB’s Foundation to invest in tomorrow’s leaders. Click HERE to learn more and donate.
