Ohio Association of Broadcasters Appoints
Chad Budreau as New President
Veteran Association Leader and Former Broadcaster to Assume Role on December 9, 2024
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Oct. 7, 2024) – The Ohio Association of Broadcasters (OAB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Chad Budreau as its new President, effective December 9, 2024. Mr. Budreau brings more than a decade of association leadership experience and a background in broadcasting.
Mr. Budreau joins the OAB from the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), where he has worked since 2010, including the last six years as Executive Director. During his tenure at AMA, he successfully navigated an 88-year-old organization through the challenges presented by emerging industries like artificial intelligence and drone technology.
Mr. Budreau brings significant advocacy experience to the OAB, leading legislative efforts at the state, local, and federal levels while at AMA. Among his accomplishments was securing Congressional recognition of AMA as a nationally recognized community-based organization, which amplified the association’s influence. He also worked closely with regulatory and executive agencies such as the FAA, FCC, and DHS – experience that will be invaluable to Ohio’s broadcasters as they navigate the complex regulatory environment.
In addition to his advocacy work, Mr. Budreau has overseen a broad array of initiatives at AMA, including outreach, credentialling and training programs, and event management. He was also instrumental in establishing key partnerships with organizations such as Google Wing, the Air Force JROTC, and the Civil Air Patrol – reflecting his commitment to innovation and collaboration.
Mr. Budreau’s background in broadcasting includes work at WIPB-TV in Muncie, IN, WOUB-TV in Athens, OH, as well as Whitewater Broadcasting’s radio stations in Richmond, IN, where he served in various roles including assistant station manager, account executive, and news producer.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chad to the OAB,” said Brian Lorenzen, Chair of the OAB Board of Directors. “His extensive association management experience, coupled with his background in broadcasting and government relations, makes him uniquely qualified to lead OAB and continue advocating for the broadcast industry in Ohio. We are excited for the future under his leadership.”
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Budreau said, “I am honored to join the Ohio Association of Broadcasters and work alongside Ohio’s radio and television stations. Broadcasting is where I began my career, and I’m excited to return to the industry in a leadership role. I look forward to working with the OAB team to support our members, strengthen their advocacy efforts, and navigate the evolving media landscape.”
Mr. Budreau received a B.A. from Ball State University and an M.A. from Ohio University. He succeeds Christine Merritt, who announced earlier this year that she will step down in December after 22 years as OAB president.
For more information, contact the OAB’s Andy Hartzell.