Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Debby Woodin, Ben Woolery, John Emrich named to Regional Media Hall of Fame

The Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) Department of Communication announces the 2026 Regional Media Hall of Fame Honorees: Debby Woodin, Ben Woolery and John Emrich, all professionals dedicated to their craft and the community.

Debby Woodin is a news reporter at the Joplin Globe where she began her career during high school as a copy girl and has served in numerous positions during her 51-year career there. She has won numerous awards from the Missouri Press Association and serves on the Missouri Press-Bar Commission to foster communication between the media, the bench and the Bar. She also serves the courts as a camera-in-the-courtroom coordinator for multiple area counties.








Ben Woolery has worked as an announcer for radio and television since his start in 1971. A commercial producer, DJ, news announcer and even radio station owner, Woolery has worked in broadcast operations throughout the Four State area and currently is the KZRG Morning NewsWatch Host covering news and severe weather. In his more than 50 years on the job, he has been a role model and leader in the broadcast industry.

John Emrich started his career in television advertising sales in 1991 at KODE developing the Southeast Kansas and Northeast Oklahoma markets. He was instrumental in developing sales for the Chuck Broyles Pittsburg State University Coaches Show, which moved to KSNF-TV in 1998. Respected by the advertising community and his peers, Emrich serves as local sales manager for both stations.








The Regional Media Hall of Fame recognizes individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions to the media industry over the past two decades or more. Whether in print, broadcast, digital or behind the scenes, media professionals shape the stories that define our communities.

A Regional Media Hall of Fame award ceremony to celebrate the three honorees will be held in November.


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your entry into the Regional Media Hall of Fame.

Delmar said...

Congratulations, Debby.