Emeritus faculty member joins Broadcasting Hall of Fame

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters has inducted Central Michigan University emeritus faculty member William "Rick" Sykes into the Michigan Broadcasting Hall of Fame and presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

MAB presented its 2020 awards this month in partnership with Patrick Communications.

Born in Saginaw, Michigan, Sykes earned undergraduate and graduate degrees at CMU before starting his broadcasting career in 1973 at WNEM-TV in Saginaw. He moved to WDIV-TV in Detroit in 1982 and to a regional public relations firm in Detroit in 1990.

In 1996, Sykes joined what is now CMU's School of Broadcast and Cinematic Arts. He taught news and sports-related courses for 24 years and oversaw the student-produced News Central 34 during its 17-year streak as the MAB Foundation's station of the year. He also has been a member and chairman of the MAB Foundation board of directors.

In 2010, Sykes earned CMU's Excellence in Teaching Award.

"We are very proud of Rick and his many contributions to our college, CMU and the broadcasting field," said Elizabeth Kirby, interim dean of the College of the Arts and Media. Sykes is credited with helping scores of future broadcasters get their start.

Established in 2001, the Michigan Broadcasting Hall of Fame recognizes broadcasters for leadership, achievements and contributions to their local communities. Hall of Fame inductees are chosen based on distinguished professional careers in Michigan broadcasting.