2026 Executive of the Year

Ray Horner, host, WAKR Radio Morning Show/Program Director 

Ray Horner has hosted the WAKR Radio Morning Show for 25 years and is a 45-year radio professional, including his work as a talent and Operations Manager at Great Circle Broadcasting in Meadville, Pennsylvania.  He has also served as the Rubber City Radio Group's Operations Manager since January 2024.

During his time as Morning Host, he has supported many local organizations, including: The Salvation Army of Summit County, The Haven of Rest, IBH, Junior Achievement, The American Red Cross, The American Heart Association, and many others.    Ray serves on the Salvation Army's Advisory Board in Summit County.

Ray was twice named the Sportscaster of the Year by the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters, and at WAKR served as the lead play-by-play announcer of STVM games during the Lebron James era.   Has also served as lead announcer for both Hiram College and Allegheny College during his career. 

Ray and his wife, Melissa, live in Wadsworth and are proud parents of four children: Elizabeth, Rocco, and twins Ava and Gia.   They also love spending time with their son-in-law, Kevin, and grandson, Creed.

For enjoyment, Ray loves to golf, take in baseball games, and walk the trails and streets of greater Akron.