Dan Schumacher Honored with the 2025 Dave Black Excellence in Advising Award

The Dave Black Excellence in Advising Award was presented to Dan Schumacher, long-time faculty advisor for KTSW-FM at Texas State University, at the 2025 College Broadcasters, Inc. (CBI) National Student Media Convention.

The award recognizes outstanding dedication, leadership, and service to student electronic media operations. It’s named in honor of the late Dave Black, a beloved figure in the college media community whose wisdom, mentorship, and compassion continue to shape generations of advisors.

“Ask a college radio advisor what makes their station successful, and they’ll tell you it’s their students,” said Brian Lucas, Director of Radio and Lecturer at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, who presented the award. “I’m no different. I feel the same way. Our students are the driving force. But the truth is, the opportunities they have to succeed are built on the foundation laid by those who came before them, and by the tone, support, and leadership their advisor provides.”

Lucas reflected on how Dave Black shaped his own understanding of advising.

“When I first met Dave, he told me something that’s stuck with me for years,” Lucas recalled. “‘Everything starts with you, meaning the advisor. The tone you set and the energy you bring will have a lasting impact on your students and your station.’ Dave was right. Like most organizations, it all stems from the top.”

Lucas said it was especially meaningful to present this year’s award to Schumacher, a close friend and colleague whom Dave Black himself introduced to him years ago at a CBI conference in Orlando.

“Dave knew we’d hit it off,” Lucas said with a laugh. “We bonded instantly over blues music at BB King’s and built a friendship that’s lasted more than fifteen years.”

That friendship has been anchored by mutual respect and admiration for each other and the work Schumacher has done to elevate student media.

“Dan is one of the most dedicated, student-centered advisors I’ve ever known,” Lucas said. “He shows up for his students every single day. He makes them feel seen, supported, and inspired.”

Schumacher’s impact has extended far beyond Texas State. His former students have gone on to become leaders in journalism, broadcasting, and media production, many of whom credit him for helping them find their confidence and voice.

“Everything Dan does is to help students recognize their potential and give them the room to try and fail in a safe space,” said Haley, now Director of Content & Creative Services for Austin Woman Magazine.

“He’s been a mentor and a sounding board throughout my radio career,” added Matt, now a host at the Marconi Award–winning KTCK The Ticket in Dallas. “I could not have climbed the radio mountain without Dan’s impact.”

Eric, an Emmy Award–winning journalist at KSAT-TV, said Schumacher “leads with authenticity. (He is) supportive, honest, and real. He didn’t just guide me; he showed me what authentic leadership looks like.”

And Juan, now Communications Director for the Texas AFL-CIO, described him as “the unapologetic, tattooed professor” who encourages students to try new things and invests in their ideas.

“These aren’t just words,” Lucas said. “They’re a reflection of Dan’s legacy. His students’ success, confidence, and sense of purpose are a direct result of the environment he creates. One grounded in trust, encouragement, and genuine care.”

As Lucas concluded his remarks on stage, he added one final sentiment that seemed to capture the spirit of the moment: “Dave would be proud. He was one of the good ones. And so is Dan.”