“Patsy’s passion for excellence in small market local television is unmatched,” said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. “She exemplifies the best of broadcasting by running the longest continuously-owned and operated, independent broadcast organization in the West, which has served Oregon and Northern California for nearly nine decades. We are pleased to honor her with this well-deserved award.”
Smullin is President and owner of California Oregon Broadcasting, Inc. (COBi), which was founded in 1933 by her father Bill Smullin, a NAB Distinguished Service Award recipient. COBi comprises five television stations in Oregon and Pilot Rock Productions, a digital video production company. She has served as president of the Oregon Association of Broadcasters and the Oregon Cable TV Association, and on the board of the National Association of Broadcasters and the NBC TV Affiliate Board.
Throughout her career, Smullin has spent time both behind and in front of the camera. Her recurring television program, “Up Close With Patsy Smullin,” features interviews with TV stars, first ladies, network anchors, musicians, scientists and politicians.
The Chuck Sherman Television Leadership Award, created in 2003, is named in honor of the late Dr. Charles E. Sherman to recognize an individual demonstrating leadership, service and commitment to local television in medium and smaller markets.
