WGVU host receives top award

The American Women in Radio and Television organization, or AWART, seeks out the best and brightest in radio, television, cable and new media. Shelley Irwin has won the Gracie Allen Award for Individual Achievement in the local market category for her work as host of The WGVU Morning Show on WGVU radio 88.5 FM/1480 AM.

'I am honored and stunned. I love what I do,' said Irwin. 'This career is truly the following of a dream. I spent much of my prior days working as a sports medicine physical therapist. Something was missing and I decided to go for it,' she said.

Irwin not only hosts the two-hour talk show but is responsible for lining up guests as well. She came to Grand Valley in December, 2001 as producer of the show and took over as host in July, 2003.

'Shelley has been a dynamo since coming to the station,' said Ken Kolbe assistant general manager for operations. 'We are excited and proud that she has won this award. She does a great job for us.'

A record number of entries were submitted for the AWART awards. Irwin was selected for her superior writing, producing and programming. National winners of the Grace Allen Award for 2004 include Sarah Jessica Parker, Courteney Cox, and Larry King. Irwin will be honored with other local market winners at an AWART luncheon on June 21 in New York City.