Stars, Legends, and Leaders: CRS Honors 2026 to Reveal Country Radio Hall of Fame and ACM Radio Winners
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The heartbeat of the country music industry is heading to Nashville this month, and the stakes are officially being raised. Country Radio Seminar (CRS) has announced that its premier event, CRS Honors, will serve as the stage for some of the industry’s most anticipated reveals.
Taking place on Wednesday, March 18, at 2:00 p.m., CRS Honors is set to unveil the Country Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2026 alongside select ACM Radio Award winners. It’s a high-noon (well, technically mid-afternoon) showdown of talent, legacy, and broadcasting excellence.
A Powerhouse Partnership: CRS and the ACMs
In a dynamic partnership with the Academy of Country Music (ACM), CRS Honors will host the live announcement of the ACM Radio Award winners for Station of the Year and On-Air Personality of the Year. These awards span all market sizes—Small, Medium, Large, and Major.
To add a bit of “Burn It Down” energy to the proceedings, multi-platinum artist Parker McCollum will be on hand to help unveil the honorees. While these specific categories will be celebrated on stage, the remaining ACM Radio Award winners will be revealed during the legendary New Faces of Country Music® Show later in the week.
The Ceremony Lineup
The event will be hosted by CRB Board President Kurt Johnson, with opening remarks from CRB Executive Director RJ Curtis. The atmosphere will be set with:
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National Anthem: Performed by BBR Music Group’s Frank Ray.
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In Memoriam Segment: A special tribute to lost members of the country radio community, performed by HARDY (Big Loud Records).
Investing in the Future: 2026 Scholarship Recipients
CRS Honors isn’t just about looking back at legends; it’s about paving the way for the next generation of broadcasters. This year, several prestigious scholarships will be awarded to rising stars in the format.
Rusty Walker & Lisa McKay Scholarship Winners
These awards provide rising professionals with the opportunity to attend CRS and receive mentorship from the industry’s best.
Leadership & Impact Awards
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Mentoring & Inspiring Women (MIW) Country Radio Scholarship: MIW Board Member Lo Sessions will honor Jessica Chenoweth (KSON) as the 2025 mentee and officially kick off the 2026 program.
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Whitney Allen “Hot Mic” Scholarship: This award, recognizing impactful female on-air talent, will be presented to Monica McGlochlin (99.9 KONY Country).
Joining the Seminar: Registration & Last-Minute Access
While online registration for CRS 2026 has officially closed, you haven’t missed the boat just yet. If you’re in Nashville, you can still secure your spot via on-site registration at the rate of $799.
Other available ticket options include:
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New Faces of Country Music® Show: $110 (limited number remaining).
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Day Passes: $349 (limit two per person).
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Student Rate: $199 for currently enrolled students.
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Industry Rate: $450 for members of WMBA, IBA, and SOLID.
About the Organizations
Country Radio Seminar (CRS): An annual convention focusing on knowledge exchange and business practices within the country music industry, specifically relevant to country radio.
The Academy of Country Music (ACM): A Nashville-headquartered powerhouse advocate for country fans and artists, known for the global streaming success of the ACM Awards and its philanthropic arm, ACM Lifting Lives.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®: A world leader in understanding and treating childhood cancer, ensuring that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.
For more information, visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com or follow CRS on Facebook, X, and Instagram.