Jeff Smulyan, 67, founder of Emmis Communications Corp., received the 2015 Humanitarian of the Year award from the Country Radio Broadcasters Wednesday afternoon. CRS Executive Director Bill Mayne presented the award.
According to Country Radio Broadcasters Inc. mission statement, it was created to provide a platform and structure for education and growth for the Country Music format, serving as the conduit connecting the interests of Country Radio with the Country Music Industry.
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The organization brings Country Radio broadcasters from around the nation together to enhance skills, facilitate business, and promote the growth of the industry.
The intent of its humanitarian award, given at the discretion of the Country Radio Broadcasters Board of Directors, is to recognize an individual in the Country Radio industry who has displayed a magnanimous spirit of caring and generosity in service to their community. This is not an annual award, but given when the board feels an individual, through outstanding service, warrants the recognition.
Mayne said of the honoree, “Jeff Smulyan epitomizes the definition of the Tom Rivers Humanitarian award. His commitment to broadcasting, service to community, and personal giving is recognized across our industry. It is our privilege to recognize his accomplishments in this arena.”
Smulyan has supported many Jewish causes over the years. These include the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, the Bureau of Jewish Education, which has the Smulyan/Stolkin Education Center and Beth El Zedeck which offers the Smulyan Lecture Series.
Some non-Jewish causes which he has endowed included, , the Indianapolis Zoo (Samantha Smulyan Slash Zone), the International School, United Way, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Planned Parenthood.