Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Famers Terry and Sandy Shockley have been revealed as the founding grantors of the newly established Young Broadcasters Development Fund, aimed at inspiring career building in the broadcast industry.
“Our mission with this fund is to inspire and motivate young people to pursue a career in broadcasting,” Terry and Sandy Shockey said in a joint statement. “The rewards are many, and like our WBA members, serving the broadcast license has provided a lifestyle filled with exciting experiences.”
The fund, managed by the WBA Foundation, is accepting donations. Donors will be recognized as member grantors.
“We are so grateful to Terry and Sandy for their generous and inspiring contribution to the future of broadcasting in Wisconsin,” said WBA President/CEO Michelle Vetterkind. “It is exciting to have such tremendous momentum behind an issue that the WBA Board of Directors has placed as such a high priority in its strategic planning.”
The fund will initially provide support to the WBA campus ambassador program, which has grown to include UW-Oshkosh and UW-Whitewater. Two students on each campus represent broadcasters in student organizations and promote WBA resources and events.
“The WBA Foundation is excited to announce the Young Broadcasters Development Fund,” said WBA Foundation Chair Chris Bernier. “Thanks to Terry and Sandy Shockley who have made a generous donation to start this fund.”
One of the student ambassadors for the coming year, Chloe DeBois from UW-Oshkosh, was a featured guest at this year’s WBA Summer Conference in Lake Geneva, Wisc., where she was able to meet the Shockleys.
It is expected that the fund will grow to also support other initiatives aimed at student broadcasters and those just starting their careers in broadcasting, which includes initiatives from the WBA Young Professionals Committee.
